Homes evacuated over fears fire at seaside hotel weakened building's structure

Residents near a fire at the Grand Burstin Hotel in Folkestone have been evacuated due to safety concerns that the basement blaze may have weakened the building's structure, according to the council. The fire erupted at the hotel on Marine Parade early Saturday morning, prompting the evacuation of approximately 280 people. Ninety residents were relocated from Pavilion Court in Marine Terrace due to safety inspector concerns.

Kent Police are investigating the fire as suspicious and have called for witnesses. The council stated that Pavilion Court residents have been accommodated in hotel rooms in the town, and efforts are underway to find alternative housing for all affected residents while the Grand Burstin undergoes safety assessments and necessary repairs.

Britannia Hotels Group, which manages the hotel, is cooperating fully with the police investigation and is providing any necessary assistance. Kent Fire & Rescue Service sent 26 fire engines to the scene around 1:05 AM on Saturday, with one engine remaining to monitor for hotspots. A welfare center was set up at Three Hills Sports Park for evacuated hotel residents, with local businesses like The Harbour Inn opening their doors to those affected.

The council's chief executive, Susan Priest, commended the support from various organizations, including Morrisons and the Salvation Army, in ensuring the well-being of hotel guests and residents. A witness, Ross Honeycomb, described the terrifying experience of being woken by fire alarms and witnessing smoke from the underground car park.

Another resident, Kevin Crawford, shared that they initially thought the fire was under control when hearing the alarm but later realized the severity of the situation when seeing flames.