The Royal Albion Hotel has suffered significant damage due to a fire that broke out on Saturday. The immediate focus is on securing the structure and ensuring public safety.
East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service worked tirelessly overnight on Monday, extinguishing smaller fires and minimizing the risk of reignition. Their ongoing visits throughout Tuesday night aim to assess the stability of the building, while round-the-clock security personnel remain on-site.
Unfortunately, the extent of the fire has caused a delay in the planned demolition of the affected portion of the hotel. The demolition, now scheduled to begin on Wednesday, is projected to take approximately 2 to 3 weeks to complete.
To ensure public safety, barriers have been erected around the hotel, establishing a safe perimeter. The on-site contractor will continuously evaluate and manage any potential risks that may arise.
In light of the ongoing situation, local authorities urge residents and visitors to avoid the vicinity of the hotel. Road diversions remain in effect, redirecting traffic away from the area.
If anyone notices the presence of dust or smoke in the air, it is advised to keep windows and doors closed. However, in case of an emergency, where excessive smoke or flames are visible, residents are urged to contact the fire service immediately at 999.
Council Leader, Councillor Bella Sankey, expressed her commitment to preserving the hotel’s heritage:
“Due to health and safety concerns, the demolition of part of the Royal Albion Hotel has been rescheduled for tomorrow. Our goal is to salvage as much of this iconic heritage building as possible, and we have instructed our contractors accordingly. We will save and reuse as many original features as we can, or create molds and copies to maintain its historic character.”
The council has taken significant steps to manage access and ensure public safety. A section of Kings Road (A259) between the Old Steine roundabout and East Street, along with most of Pool Valley, has been cordoned off due to the potential risk of falling debris during the demolition process. This closure is expected to last for the next three weeks.
Regrettably, properties directly adjacent to the hotel will remain inaccessible. Local authorities have contacted affected individuals, providing them with support and necessary information.
Residents who have been displaced by the fire can contact the housing team for assistance by emailing housing.advice@brighton-hove.gov.uk or by calling 01273 294 400 (option 1).
While businesses outside the exclusion zone are permitted to reopen, they are advised to conduct their own risk assessments to ensure the safety of their staff and customers.
Local officials extend their gratitude to residents and visitors for their patience and understanding during this challenging time.
Addressing concerns about public health, the council has held meetings with the UK Health Security Agency to assess any potential risks.
Alistair Hill, Director of Public Health, sought to allay fears surrounding asbestos exposure:
“We understand there may be concerns regarding asbestos. However, I want to reassure the public that the risk to health is minimal. Although asbestos is known to be present in the textured ceiling coatings used in the building, the likelihood of significant exposure following the fire is unlikely. We have cordoned off the area around the hotel, and we do not believe that asbestos has spread beyond this zone. Our on-site contractor responsible for demolition will continually assess the risk, and security measures will remain in place. We urge residents and businesses to keep windows and doors closed if they notice any smoke or dust in the air during the ongoing work.”
As efforts transition from emergency response to the recovery phase, the council emphasizes the importance of ensuring a safe environment for all. The necessary measures are being taken to restore normalcy while preserving the historic legacy of the Royal Albion Hotel.
A massive thank you to Sam Wayde for the photos used in this article.
