A fire has broken out in the part-demolished Gaiety Amusement arcade on Ventnor’s seafront.
Plumes of thick black smoke are rising up through the town and fire crews are in attendance.
This videos below were shot when we first arrived, but despite three hoses on the fire, the flames are being whipped up and have now spread to the ground floor too. The plastic coating around the top of the building is melting.
Thanks to John Allen (photo at top of article ) and Jack Whitewood for sharing these photos from the seafront at 7pm.
As some properties were being evacuated, Andy Kinnaird from the Wellington Hotel offered any spare rooms overnight free of charge for those who have had to leave their homes.
More news as we get it.
Under development
Demolition work began at the site last month in preparation for building works on the site.
Work began to peel back the layers of the former amusement arcade, with the hopes of retaining the original cast-iron frame.
Plans are approved to build a private dwelling with additional accommodation at the rear.
Thanks to everyone who got in touch for the heads-up.
