This evening, fire crews have responded to reports of a fire at the derelict Ocean Hotel in Sandown. The emergency services were called to the scene shortly after 7pm, with fire engines from Sandown and Newport, as well as the Aerial Ladder Platform from Ryde, promptly arriving at the location. Officers from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary were also on the scene shortly after the fire crews.
Firefighters used ladders to access the second floor of the abandoned property, where the fire is believed to have originated. Despite no visible flames, smoke was seen issuing from broken windows and doors on the High Street side of the premises. The smell of smoke filled the evening sky, adding to the concern.
High Street has been blocked to all traffic while firefighters work to extinguish the blaze, extracting water from nearby hydrants. This disruption has led to local diversions for Route 3 Southern Vectis buses.
The cause of the fire is currently unknown. Authorities are urging residents and passersby to avoid the area to allow emergency services to manage the situation effectively.
