image credit ESFR: Claremont Hotel: 7:00am 23 November 2019
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service update, 7:17am 23 November 2019
The East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service operation at the site of an Eastbourne hotel is likely to continue throughout Saturday.
Two fire engines and a control unit are at the scene as of 06.30 today (23 November 2019).
Efforts to isolate the gas supply to the Claremont Hotel will continue.
There are concerns over the stability of the building which means that this work cannot take place in the immediate area around the hotel. Alternative plans have been put in place.
This work will take some time and people are being asked to avoid the area.
Meanwhile we are allowing the gas to burn off in a controlled manner which is being closely monitored.
Cordons remain in place to ensure public safety and are being managed by Sussex Police.
A further update is expected after 10am.
To recap:
We were called at 08.52 on 22 November 2019 to reports of a fire in a basement of the Claremont hotel.
At the height of the incident 12 fire engines were at the scene, supported by specialist vehicles and officers.
West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, Sussex Police, Eastbourne Borough Council, SECamb, Highways, utility companies and local building control assisted.
Everyone was evacuated safely.
Eastbourne Borough Council is helping provide accommodation for people from neighbouring properties who need somewhere to stay.
Anyone who is unable to return to their home because of the fire and needs alternative accommodation can call Sussex Police on 101 for assistance.
