Firefighters tackle blaze at former council offices in Sidmouth

Firefighters have extinguished a fire that "severely damaged" The Knowle former council offices in Sidmouth.

The cause of the blaze, which involved a third of the building, is still being investigated.

Crews were called out to reports of smoke and a small glow coming from the derelict building at around 4am on Thursday (30 March).

The fire service left the scene by 8.30am on Friday (31 March).

A high-volume pump was used to extract water at the seafront, and several roads were closed.

High-volume pump being used to extract water at the seafront (Graham Symington)

A Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "Fire Control received a call to reports of smoke in the area along with a small glow in the area of the above property. 

"Control immediately mobilised one fire appliance from Sidmouth to investigate. 

"Once on scene crews confirmed a fire involving the former council offices in Knowle well alight.

"A third of the building was involved in fire and was severely damaged. Firefighters used seven main jets and seven hose reel jets, aerial ladder platforms and a high volume pump.

"Cause still under investigation."

McCarthy Stone, the retirement housebuilder that now owns the site, issued this statement: "We are aware of the unfortunate incident that has occurred at the former council offices on the site at The Knowle and are working closely with Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service to ascertain the cause of the fire.

"We will continue to keep neighbours updated regarding this matter and the site's future redevelopment. Any residents with any further queries are welcome to get in touch via the project's information line (0800 298 7040) or via email [email protected]."

Conservative MP for East Devon Simon Jupp, whose constituency includes Sidmouth, said: "The firefighters who heroically brought the fire under control at The Knowle did a brilliant job in very difficult circumstances.

"As a resident of Sidmouth, I saw the response on the ground on Thursday and how the emergency services worked together to keep our community safe.

"They deserve our thanks for everything they did and the way they kept residents informed around the town and on social media. I have asked for a meeting with McCarthy Stone to understand the next steps for the site."

Over 20 different fire stations were called out, including Sidmouth, Exmouth, Honiton, Axminster, Seaton, Ottery St Mary and Dawlish.