A devastating fire broke out at the iconic Royal Albion Hotel on Old Stein, Brighton, yesterday evening (July 15, 2023.), prompting an urgent response from the East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service (ESFRS). The emergency services were alerted to the incident at 17:24.
At 19:30, ESFRS provided an update, revealing that a total of 15 fire appliances were deployed to tackle the blaze in Brighton including crews from West Sussex and Surrey. Firefighters employed advanced techniques, including a High Volume Pump and three Ariel Ladder Platforms, to combat the inferno.
In order to coordinate the emergency operations effectively, an Incident Command Centre has been established at the scene. As of 10:30 Sunday morning, firefighters continued their arduous efforts, utilizing Ariel Ladder Platforms and ground monitors to battle the relentless fire.
Sussex News received an eyewitness account from a hotel guest who reported that firefighters conducted a heroic rescue of a guest’s dog from the building. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported thus far.
Local authorities and emergency services issued a plea to the public, urging them to follow the guidance provided and steer clear of the affected area. Brighton and Hove Police, via their social media channels, emphasized the ongoing nature of the operation surrounding the Royal Albion Hotel. Road closures have been implemented along Kings Road from West Street to Steine Street, with the Old Steine remaining closed as well. These restrictions are expected to remain in effect throughout the day and night.
Residents and nearby businesses were advised to keep their windows and doors shut as a precautionary measure. The prompt and coordinated response from the emergency services was lauded by Council Leader, Councillor Bella Sankey, who expressed deep sadness at the scenes unfolding in the city. She extended her heartfelt gratitude to the emergency responders for their unwavering commitment and thanked all those involved in the successful evacuation of individuals from the hotel and the surrounding area.
The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing,
*A special thanks to our contributors this evening. In particular, @thekinaton who spent his evening keeping all of us updated with the latest photos and info from the scene, and @dmoonuk for covering overnight and @thewhittyphoto for editing and being one fo the first to bring you this story*
