East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is scaling back the operation at Newhaven.  

A spokesperson said: "A serious fire was reported at 09.32 this morning (8 August 2020) at an industrial building on Beach Road.  

"At the height of the fire 12 fire engines, aerial and other appliances were at the scene.

"The building was evacuated and there are no reports of injuries to the public.  

"As of 16.30 the operation is being scaled back.  

"Crews will remain on scene until at least 6pm using water to douse any hotspots.  

"The building has been badly damaged.  

"A preliminary fire investigation is being launched.  

“We would like to thank all those who have assisted us at this incident.”

Lewes District Council has issued the following statement:

"The outer cordon is being removed and the rest centre that council officers set-up will not be required.  

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service remain on scene and anticipate being there for the rest of the afternoon.  

“Our thanks to all the fire officers for their superb response in Newhaven today.”

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said firefighters remains at the scene as of 1.30pm.

Twelve fire engines remain at the scene along with other fire service vehicles, however ‘there are now plans to scale down the operation’.

A spokesperson said: "Crews continue to work to put out any remaining flames and hotspots.

"We have been working with Lewes District Council, Newhaven Port and Sussex Police.

"It is likely that the service will remain at the scene all afternoon.

“The cause is not known but will be investigated.”

Lewes District Council has provided a fresh statement, offering support to those affected.

A spokesperson said: "Council officers are setting up a rest centre at the Hillcrest Centre on Bay Vue Road in Newhaven in case it is required.

"The area should be avoided and residents living in or around Newhaven must keep doors and windows closed."

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We have spoken to councillor James MacCleary, Leader of Lewes District Council and Newhaven resident, who has a clear view of the ongoing incident this morning. 

He said: "It looks like they are starting to get it under control now. There was very thick, black smoke for a long time. It was really bad about 10am

"The smoke is still coming up thick and fast but its a much lighter colour. It’s thinned out significantly.

"It looks like the warehouse is some distance from the housing but the main concern at the moment is the air quality and breathing it in.

“The district council is on standby to provide emergency accommodation if the fire service tell us we need to evacuate anybody.”

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