Hastings MP 'infuriated' after fire at former convent
Officials vow action following blaze at heritage site
A fire broke out at the former convent site in St Leonards has lead to urgent calls for enhanced security and accountability regarding the historic site.
Hastings Borough Council expressed sadness over the incident and acknowledged its collaboration with East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service as well as other agencies in response to the fire.
A council spokesperson stated: “Hastings Borough Council was saddened to learn of the fire at the Former Convent site in Magdalen Road on Thursday evening and has been working with East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and other partner agencies in response to the incident."
The site, which is privately owned, has been a point of concern for the council due to repeated incidents of unauthorised access and safety risks.
The council clarified that it does not own or manage the site and indicated ongoing efforts to ensure the owner addresses security issues: “Responsibility for securing the site and maintaining the buildings rests with the owners."
Kroll, the company responsible for site security, issued a statement highlighting its prompt actions during the fire and commitment to ongoing safety discussions. A spokesperson said, "Our on-site security team identified the fire and immediately contacted the emergency services.
"We can confirm the listed building was not affected.
"The Receivers have been in regular and ongoing dialogue with both the local authority and the lender regarding site security, and we are working with all parties to review and strengthen protective measures."
Local MP Helena Dollimore shared the community's distress and urged for intensified measures: "There must now be a proper investigation into how this was allowed to happen... I will keep doing everything I can to ensure they are held to account."
Residents are warned against entering the site due to ongoing dangers, as authorities continue with assessments and investigations.
According to Hastings Borough Council, “Residents are reminded that the site remains extremely dangerous and should not be entered under any circumstances."
Emergency services responded swiftly, ensuring the listed building remained unharmed, and investigations into the cause of the fire are under way.