Blackpool hotel fire as inferno rips through building and sends smoke across sky

24 April 2023 , 15:23

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Fire at the New Hacketts Hotel, Blackpool (Image: Dave nelson)

Fire services are tackling a huge blaze at a derelict Blackpool hotel.

Crews were called to the New Hacketts Hotel on the town's Queens Promenade earlier this afternoon (Monday).

Emergency services have swarmed the scene, with 12 fire engines present.

Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service said firefighters were currently using two aerial platforms to douse the flames from above.

It's not currently known whether anyone has been injured.

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Meanwhile visitors have been urged to stay away from the area while residents have been warned to keep windows and doors shut to keep out the smoke.

Two aerial platforms have been deployed to tackle the fire from above (Dave nelson)

Pictures show colossal plumes of smoke rising over the Victorian promenade from the hotel.

Justin Johnston QFSM, Lancashire's chief fire officer, said that at one point there had been around 70 firefighters dealing with the inferno.

"Approx 70 firefighters from across the county working well to bring under control and prevent fire spread to other buildings," Mr Johnston tweeted.

A spokesperson for Lancashire Police said: "Please be advised that due to a fire we have had to close Queens Prom in Blackpool from the junction with King Edward Street and Holmefield Road and the Gynn Roundabout.

"There is a heavy amount of smoke from this incident, please avoid this area where possible."

The fire service said the incident remained ongoing on Monday evening.

Black smoke can be seen rising from the building (SplashNews.com)

"Twelve fire engines, two aerial ladder platforms, one stinger and the drone team are in attendance at a four storey derelict building fire on Queens Promenade, Blackpool," the service said in a statement.

"Firefighters are wearing breathing apparatus and using four jets to bring the fire under control. Firefighting operations are still underway.

"Several road closures are in place – Queens Promenade (in both directions), Gynn Avenue (in both directions), and Dickson Road (North bound). Trams have been stopped.

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"If you can see or smell smoke, close windows and doors. Please stay away from the area."

Susie Beever