A HUGE blaze has torn through an old Debenhams building with residents being warned to keep windows and doors closed.
The inferno broke out in Canterbury city centre at around 8.30pm last night and fire crews remained at the scene early this morning.
UKNIPFlames engulfed the abandoned superstore and the city centre was cordoned off[/caption]
UKNIPKent Fire and Rescue Service confirmed eight fire engines and two height vehicles remained at the scene this morning[/caption]
UKNIPLocal residents are still being warned to keep their windows and doors closed[/caption]
Thick plumes of smoke could be seen billowing from the property throughout the night.
Flames engulfed the abandoned superstore and the city centre has been cordoned off.
Kent Police confirmed some residents in nearby buildings were evacuated.
In an update at 6am, Kent Fire and Rescue Service reported eight fire engines and two height vehicles remain at the scene.
Local residents are still being warned to keep their windows and doors closed.
The cause of the blaze has not been established yet.
A spokesperson for Kent Fire and Rescue Service said: “People are still being advised to keep their windows and doors closed if they live in and around Canterbury High Street due to a significant amount of smoke still in the area after a large fire in a building.”
A Kent Police spokesperson said: “Kent Police patrols attended the scene of a fire at a property in Guildhall Street, Canterbury at around 8.45pm on Monday 2 December 2024.
“Officers closed nearby roads and some residents were evacuated from adjacent properties while Kent Fire and Rescue Service tackled the blaze.
“The cause of the fire has not been established at this stage.”
UKNIPA blaze has torn through an old Debenhams building with residents being warned to stay inside[/caption]
UKNIPA large emergency presence remained in the high street this morning[/caption]
UKNIPThick plumes of smoke could be seen billowing from the property[/caption]