17 people evacuated following large fire in Brighton

Around 17 people and their pets had to be evacuated from a block of flats in Brighton after a major fire broke out.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service were called to a fire in Saunders Park View, Brighton at 6.21pm yesterday (Tuesday 3rd October) to reports of fire at a residential property.

Firefighters from Hove, Roedean, Preston Circus, Lewes, Newhaven, Eastbourne and Seaford were also tasked to the scene.

At the height of the fire, crews used breathing apparatus, an Aerial Ladder Platform and 2 main jets.

Police and ambulance were also in attendance.

Locals were told to the area, specifically, Saunders Park View and Lewes Road, and told to keep windows and doors closed.

Brighton and Hove City Council set up a rest centre for "around 17 residents and some pets".

Officials added that they are helping 10 households find accommodation as they cannot return to their homes.

Update 8.20pm

In a statement, East Sussex Fire and Rescue said "The fire has been extinguished. We are scaling back the incident and reducing attendance.

"Lewes Road is about to be reopened but please continue to avoid Saunders Park View which remains closed.

"All persons are accounted for and residents are being looked after at a local rest centre by local authority.

"Thank you to West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, Sussex Police and South East Coast Ambulance for their support at the scene."

Update 4th October

A full fire investigation will be carried out by East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service into the cause of a fire in Saunders Park View in Brighton.

In statement, a spokesperson said: "We are aware of speculation however it is important that the proper process is followed before any information is released. This may take some time.

"Firefighters from Hove, Roedean, Preston Circus, Lewes, Newhaven, Eastbourne and Seaford were called at 6.21pm on Tuesday 3 October to reports of fire at a residential property. They worked hard to stop the fire from spreading throughout the whole building.

"Everyone who was in the building has been accounted for and a local rest centre was set up for residents by Brighton and Hove City Council.

"The building has been handed over to the owners.

"Crews have been in the area offering advice and support to locals."

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