Overview

• Crews from Clacton, Dovercourt, Manningtree, Weeley, Colchester, Tiptree and Chelmsford arrived at West Avenue around 12:35 am and surrounded a building that was fully alight.
• Nearby homes were evacuated under police direction and residents were advised to keep doors and windows closed due to heavy smoke.
• Jackson Road, Penfold Road and Agate Road remain closed, causing local travel disruption while emergency operations continue.
• Tendring District Council and Premier Inn Clacton have opened a refuge centre to shelter displaced residents.
• Essex County Fire & Rescue Service has announced a formal investigation into the fire’s cause once it is safe to begin inquiries.