A teenage boy has been arrested on suspicion of arson after a fire at one of the UK’s largest shopping centres.
The blaze broke out in a car park stairwell at Lakeside in Thurrock shortly before 15:00 BST on Sunday.
Essex Police said it was notified after an investigation revealed suspicious circumstances.
A 17-year-old boy from Grays has been questioned and released on bail while inquiries continue.
Sgt Amelia Moore said officers would continue to “maintain a presence” at the shopping centre.
“We are aware of the public concern connected to this fire and we have worked hard with our fire service colleagues to investigate the cause,” she added.