The A259 will remain closed for several more days as emergency services continue to deal with the aftermath of the Royal Albion hotel fire.

A multi-agency statement from Sussex Police, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and Brighton and Hove City Council said the A259 will be closed for at least another 72 hours.

This period may be extended, emergency services warned as they continue to make the location safe.

The statement said: “We continue to support our partners in responding to the fire at the Royal Albion Hotel in Brighton.

“While the fire has now been brought under control, the building has suffered significant damage.

“As a result, the A259 will remain closed for at least the next 72 hours, during which time activity will be ongoing to make the location safe.

“This timeframe may be extended, as partners work hard to reduce the footprint of the site safely.

“We would once again like to thank the public for their patience and understanding while this takes place.”

The fire, which has gutted the west wing of the old hotel building in King's Road, began on Saturday evening with firefighters from multiple counties drafted in to tackle the blaze.

Demolition crews have been arriving in Brighton since this morning, with work to demolish the front walls of the building expected to take place today or tomorrow, according to police on scene.