Fire crews tackled a significant blaze in a six‑storey residential building on Chesham Street in Kemptown, Brighton on Monday. The incident, affecting the fifth and sixth floors, prompted a sustained emergency response during the day.
Large response and multi‑agency working
East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service said they were called at 11:54 BST and deployed multiple appliances, including an aerial ladder platform. In total, nine fire engines were mobilised, with support provided by West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service.
The fire was reported as being extinguished shortly before 16:30. The fire service confirmed that no casualties were reported and the incident was later scaled back to two engines as operations wound down.
What happens next
The fire service said enquiries into the cause of the blaze will take place "in due course" and that it was working alongside other organisations at the scene. Those named include:
- Sussex Police
- SECAmb (South East Coast Ambulance Service)
- Local Authority Building Control
- UK Power Networks
"The incident had been scaled back to two engines, and investigations into the cause of the fire would take place 'in due course'."
At the height of the response the presence of an aerial ladder indicates crews were dealing with flames or smoke at height, and the multi‑agency attendance suggests checks on welfare, structural safety and utility risks were being carried out.
Advice for residents and neighbours
While no casualties were reported, fires in residential blocks can leave behind hazards including smoke damage, unstable structures and disrupted utilities. Residents affected by the incident are likely to be contacted by the local authority or emergency services with guidance on temporary accommodation or safety checks. If you live nearby and have safety concerns, contact the non‑emergency police number or your local council.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Chesham Street, Kemptown, Brighton |
| Call‑out time | 11:54 BST |
| Appliances initially | 9 fire engines (including aerial ladder) |
| Fire declared out | Shortly before 16:30 |
| Casualties | No casualties reported |
Further updates will come from the fire service as their investigation proceeds and as partner agencies complete safety checks. Residents can follow updates from East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service and Sussex Police for official information.
This office will monitor developments and report any new official statements about cause, displacement of residents or road and utility impacts.
