Emergency services are still dealing with the aftermath of the Royal Albion hotel fire with demolition work delayed and warnings that the A259 will remain closed for days.
A multi-agency statement from Sussex Police, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and Brighton and Hove City Council on Monday said the road will be closed for at least another 72 hours.
They warned this period may be extended as they continue to make the location safe.
The historic part of the 200-year-old hotel in King’s Road was gutted during the fire which began on Saturday evening.
The fire raged for several days but was eventually brought under control during the early hours of Monday morning.
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service were able to prevent the fire spreading to the more modern part of the hotel.
The multi-agency 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.”
Crowds gathered throughout Monday to watch as preparations were made to demolish the damaged parts of the hotel’s west wing.
But the work has been delayed, The Argus understands, following a complaint from a heritage group which wants a detailed study of the Grade II listed facade before it is demolished.
Vehicles from demolition company DDE began to arrive from the early morning.
One resident told The Argus: “We've been told we need to keep our windows shut when it begins because there'll be lots of dust and there's a risk of asbestos."
Council leader Councillor Bella Sankey gave her thanks to emergency services and urged people to continue to stay away from the area.
She said: “I want to give my heartfelt thanks to emergency services and everyone else who supported the response to the awful fire at the historic Royal Albion Hotel over the weekend.
“Sadly, the building has suffered significant damage and we’ll need to keep the roads closed while it’s made safe.
“We’re asking everyone to continue following advice from emergency services and to please keep away from the area.
“We’re sorry for the ongoing disruption – thank you for bearing with us while the area is made safe.”
Firefighters from multiple counties were drafted in to tackle the blaze, with around 16 fire engines in attendance at its height.
A large cordon was put in place around the hotel including a substantial proportion of Old Steine.
This cordon was lifted yesterday evening.
Of the approximately 100 people evacuated from the surrounding area, it is believed they have either found another place to stay or are being supported by the council to find a temporary alternative.
It is understood the hotel has found other accommodation for all of its guests.
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