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Firefighters are battling yet another fire at the derelict Ocean Hotel in Sandown this evening (Thursday), marking the second blaze at the site in just four days. The Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service responded to the scene after smoke was seen billowing from a top-floor window around 8:00 PM.
Three fire appliances from Sandown, Shanklin, and Ryde were quickly dispatched to the High Street and the Esplanade, where they immediately began firefighting efforts. A 13.5m ladder was erected to provide access to the upper floors of the abandoned hotel, allowing a firefighter equipped with breathing apparatus to haul a hose reel jet aloft to douse the flames.
Firefighters, both inside and outside the building, have been working diligently to contain the fire. Thermal imaging has confirmed that the blaze is confined to a single room and has not spread to other parts of the property.
As a safety precaution, High Street has been closed to all traffic, with cordons in place around the junction with York Road. The Isle of Wight Ambulance Service has an operational commander on the scene, though no injuries have been reported.
This is the second fire at the Ocean Hotel within a matter of days, following a similar incident on Monday that was deemed suspicious by authorities. In light of these events, police have now launched an arson investigation to determine the cause of the fires.
A police spokesperson said, “Given the recent history of incidents at this location, we are treating this fire as suspicious and have launched an arson investigation. We are working closely with the fire service to gather evidence and identify those responsible.”
The Ocean Hotel, once a popular seaside destination, has been derelict for some time, making it a potential target for vandals and arsonists. The repeated fires have raised concerns among local residents and authorities about the safety and security of the area.
As the investigation continues, police are urging anyone with information about the fires to come forward. Witnesses or those with relevant details can contact the police directly or anonymously through Crimestoppers.
