A devastating fire at Oxgate House in Brent destroyed over 200 businesses, including Wings World, a thrift shop founded by Megan Wing in memory of her late father. The 28-year-old lost irreplaceable memorabilia and years of hard work in the blaze on June 11.
Lost memories and livelihoods
Megan started Wings World in her mother's kitchen in 2020 while working three jobs, eventually moving to a permanent unit at Oxgate House. The business was a tribute to her father, who died eight years ago and was a major wholesaler of military memorabilia. "I had so much memorabilia that he used that I can't replace, and those things are irreplaceable," Megan said. "It's devastating."
The fire left Megan with nothing. "I built this business, and it's something I've done every single day. Now I have nothing; the fact that it's all gone, like it never existed in a way," she told MyLondon.
Questions over safety and compensation
Megan criticized the lack of communication from Artistic Spaces, the site's owner. She claimed the sprinklers did not activate during the fire and that the mezzanine in her unit was "held together by sellotape." She also noted that needed repairs were never completed, preventing her from obtaining liability insurance.
"I've had about one or two emails updating us, but not much communication," Megan said. "I don't know if I'm getting my deposit back or the month's rent I paid."
George Marnier, Co-Managing Director of Artistic Spaces, stated: "This has been a devastating incident for everyone affected. Our priority is supporting affected occupiers and working responsibly with the relevant authorities, insurers and professional advisers. Our intention is to reinstate Oxgate House as a home for independent businesses."
Community support and rebuilding
Megan has started a GoFundMe campaign that has received donations from strangers and loyal customers. One woman reportedly sold her entire wardrobe online to raise funds. "It's honestly been overwhelming," Megan said. "The way people have reacted has given me so much hope for humanity."
Despite the loss, Megan remains determined. "I hope this will be the making of me. Through the fire, the phoenix rises from the ashes," she added.
