Fire leaves derelict building at risk of collapse in Eastbourne

Firefighters in East Sussex have been working through the night to get a fire at derelict building in Eastbourne under control.

Fire crews were called out to the property on Ashburnham Road shortly before 5pm on Thursday (12 March). When they arrived the first floor and roof space were well alight.

East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service advised people living nearby to keep doors and windows closed because of the smoke.

It said the derelict building has been 'badly damaged and there is a risk that some of it might collapse.'

In a statment at 9:15pm on Thursday ESFRS said crews were expected to stay at the scene overnight: "There are strong winds and crews worked hard to stop the fire spreading to neighbouring properties.

"The risk of parts of the building collapsing remains.

The road may need to stay closed during the morning rush hour and so we urge motorists to plan ahead and find alternative routes."

There are no reports of injuries and the cause of the fire is not known.

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