Building fire in Clacton

Update Tuesday 19 August 3pm 

An investigation was carried out to determine the cause of the fire and found the fire had been started deliberately with rubbish outside the building being set alight.

Essex Police have issued the below statement:

A 42-year-old man from Clacton remains in custody and our investigation alongside Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is progressing.

Update Monday 18 August - 1pm

Firefighters are still at the scene extinguishing hot spots. Crew are expected to remain on scene for the rest of the day to ensure the whole building is fully cool and safe.

"A fire investigation will be carried out to determine the cause of the fire when it is safe to do so."

Update Monday 18 August 7am 

Incident Commander Nick Singleton said: "The fire has been extinguished and crews will remain at the scene to monitor and dampen down any hotspots. I'd like to say a big thank you to the crews who worked extremely hard to stop the fire from spreading to nearby buildings. As well as a thank you to our emergency services partners for their help, the Premier Inn for providing a refuge centre and local residents for being patient with us while we deal with the incident. 

Firefighters are currently dealing with a building on fire on West Avenue, Clacton. 

If you live in the area, please keep all your windows and doors shut as there is a lot of smoke coming from the incident.

Crews are working to extinguish a building which is fully alight. 

Nearby residents have been evacuated. 

Incident Commander Nick Singleton said: "Crews have worked hard to surround the fire. We will be remaining here for a significant time during the day to make sure the fire is fully extinguished. Jackson Road, Penfold Road and Agate Road will be shut and experience disruption while our crews remain at the incident. 

"Thank you to our emergency services colleagues who have helped us safety evacuate nearby residents." 

Tendring District Council have set up a refuge centre for displaced residents.