At 17:47 East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service were called to reports of a derelict building fire on Upper Carlisle Road, Eastbourne.
Eight appliances including two aerial ladder platforms are in attendance from Eastbourne, Pevensey, Hailsham, Boheamia Road, Seaford, Bexhill, Lewes, Roadean and Preston Circus.
Firefighters are using jets from the ground and two main jets from the aerial ladder platforms to fight the fire.
Please avoid the area.
Those in the surrounding areas please close windows and doors.
Update 22:00 19/10/25
We still have eight fire appliances on scene. Firefighters continue to use the main jets and aerial ladder platform to fight the fire.
We urge you to avoid the area and continue to keep your windows and doors shut.
Update 23:30 19/10/25
Firefighters are continuing to fight the fire with main jets.
The incident is starting to be scaled down.
Ambulance and Police are also in attendance.
Update 06:00 20/10/25
Firefighters still remain on scene using three main jets to fight the fire.
Police and Ambulance are no longer in attendance.
There are no reports of casualties.
Update 09:00 20/10/25
As of 7.55am crews are continuing to monitor the building and are damping down.
UK Power Networks are also in attendance.
Update 11.00 20/10/25
As of 11.00am the incident has been scaled down to 1 fire engine and crews are continuing with damping down to ensure the fire is completely out.
Police are appealing for witnesses and information. The latest update from Sussex Police can be found here: Appeal after arson at former school building in Eastbourne | Sussex Police
Information can be reported to Sussex Police online, quoting serial 936 of 19/10.
Update 14.00 20/10/25
We are aware of concerns of asbestos being linked to the building. Our information indicates there is no known asbestos in the affected areas. While this makes the risk of asbestos exposure very unlikely, we understand people may still feel concerned.
Smoke from any fire can cause irritation such coughing, wheezing, sore throat, shortness of breath or eye irritation. It can also worsen existing health problems including asthma, so people should carry their inhaler with them at all times.
If you were in the area of the fire and are feeling unwell, please seek guidance from your GP or contact NHS 111 in the first instance. If you experience chest pains or severe breathing difficulties, please dial 999.
As of 1.53pm one fire engine remains on scene. Firefighters are continuing with damping down and checking for any hot spots.