Derelict 18th Century building fire suspected arson
Matthew FosterPolice have launched an arson investigation into a fire at an unoccupied 18th Century building.
Thames Valley Police said it had started an investigation into the cause of the blaze after fire crews were called at about 03:30 BST on Thursday to The Bury in Church Street, Chesham.
About 70% of one three-storey Grade II-listed commercial building was damaged, with all floors and parts of the structure affected, Buckinghamshire Fire Service said.
Historic England said the site dated from 1716 and was built for William Lowndes, secretary to the Treasury in the reign of Queen Anne.
At the height of the incident, a large amount of smoke was seen in the area.
The blaze involved "two unoccupied commercial buildings", the fire service confirmed.
A police spokesperson said: "We are still supporting our fire colleagues at the scene but have now opened an investigation into the cause of the fire."
It confirmed no arrests had been made and asked anyone with any information to get in contact.
It is not known who owns the building.
Rev Edward Bowes-SmithPeter Hawkes, from Chesham Heritage, said it was a "terribly sad day for Chesham".
He added that the site was the home of the Lowndes family until it was requisitioned by the government in World War Two, but in recent times it had been "sitting empty a couple of years".
Chesham HeritageDo you have a story suggestion for Beds, Herts or Bucks? Contact us below.
Follow Beds, Herts and Bucks news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.
