Major fire rips through Westcliff block of flats, with large emergency response

A large fire has torn through the roof of a residential block of flats in Westcliff, with thick smoke seen rising into the air near the BP petrol station and ALDI on London Road.

The blaze broke out earlier today at a four-storey building on Imperial Avenue. Eyewitnesses reported that the top floor was completely alight, with flames potentially spreading to the floors below.

Emergency services rushed to the scene, and at least six fire crews and six ambulances were dispatched. A Technical Rescue Unit was also sent to assist.

A spokesperson for Essex Fire and Rescue Service said:
“Firefighters have been called to a fire in the roof of a four storey residential block of flats in Westcliff on Sea. Firefighters at the scene reported that the fire is affecting the whole of the roof. Crews have surrounded the building and are working to tackle the fire. If you live nearby, please close your doors and windows due to the smoke.”

Crews were deployed from Basildon, Canvey Island, Chelmsford, Corringham, Orsett and Southend fire stations. Multiple paramedics were also on standby, although there are currently no confirmed reports of injuries.

Update at 2pm: The fire has now been brought under control. Firefighters remain at the scene, working to fully extinguish remaining hot spots. The roof of the building has been completely destroyed, and several flats within the block have suffered damage.

Angie Jones said: “My nana lives there and she is 104. She’s been evacuated.”

Emergency services are expected to remain on scene for several hours. The cause of the fire is not yet known.