The fire service said that there were strong winds and crews worked hard to stop the fire from spreading to neighbouring properties as residents were told to keep their doors and windows shut
Firefighters have been called to a blaze at a derelict building, which has been left engulfed in flames and at risk of collapsing.
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service was called to reports of a fire at a derelict building in Ashburnham Road, Eastbourne shortly before 5pm on Thursday, March 12. The public has been told to avoid the area.
The first floor of the building and the roof space was ablaze. There are no reports of injuries and the cause of the fire is unknown.
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Residents were told to keep doors and windows closed due to smoke.
Sussex Police were assisting with traffic control.
The fire service said the derelict building was badly damaged and there is a risk that some of it will collapse.
“We ask that you continue to avoid the area,” East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said in a statement.
Firefighters are expected to remain at the scene overnight.
As of 9.15pm, relief crews have taken over, supported by Command Unit and by Joint Fire Control which received multiple 999 calls about the incident.
“There are strong winds and crews worked hard to stop the fire spreading to neighbouring properties,” East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said.
“The risk of parts of the building collapsing remains.”
The fire service urged motorists to plan ahead and find alternative routes as the road may need to stay closed during the morning rush hour.
