Derelict building fire in Blackpool

Eight fire engines are at a large fire involving a derelict building on Kent Street, Blackpool.

Firefighters are using an aerial ladder platform and a water tower to bring the fire under control.

A large smoke plume is affecting the local area and we are asking for those people close by who can see or smell the smoke to stay inside and keep windows closed.

We are working with other agencies to extinguish the fire and minimise the disruption.

Updated 19:50: Over the last few hours firefighters have been trying to find and extinguish the fire which is in a complex building with a large quantity of waste. The fire is now beginning to break through the roof which is causing a large smoke plume. We strongly recommend that residents in the nearby area keep windows and doors shut and adhere to the safety cordons we have in place.

Update at 10:50 on Sunday 22 June: We still have four fire engines and specialist appliances such as an aerial ladder platform and water tower at the fire on Kent Road, Blackpool, this morning.

The fire has been brought under control but there are a number of hot spots that our firefighters are working to extinguish. The smoke plume has diminished but we have concerns over the structural intergrity of the building and we are working with local authorities to work out the next steps to secure the site.

As such, a cordon is still in place around the scene and we urge people to adhere to the cordons for their own safety.

We envisage that these restrictions will be in place for the rest of the day and into tomorrow.

The cause of the fire is subject to a police and fire investigation.