King’s Road in Harrogate was closed for several hours last night due to a fire at the former Kimberley Hotel.
Eight fire engines were called to the large site, which has been the subject of drugs and crime concerns lately.
An eyewitness, who asked not to be named, said the incident happened at about 11pm.
The eyewitness, who lives and works nearby, said the road was closed until about 2.45am.
The cause of the fire and extent of damage. North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service’s incident log said:
“Crews from Harrogate, Knaresborough, Ripon, Tadcaster, Northallerton, Skipton and Malton along with the aeriel ladder platform responded to reports of smoke issuing from a disused hotel.
“Crews used 20 breathing apparatus, four hose reel jets, one main jet and lance, lighting, thermal imaging cameras, small tools, door enforcer, hydraulic spreaders, reciprocating saw, drills and a triple extension ladder to fight the fire.
“The fire caused 100% fire damage to the annex measuring 10m by 10m and caused 5% fire damage and 50% smoke damage to the main building.
“One crew is currently still in attendance. The cause is under investigation.”
Read more:
- Harrogate’s former Kimberley Hotel being used for drugs and crime, say police
- Kimberley Hotel owner goes into liquidation amid £3.5m debts
