Police Launch Arson Investigation After Major Fire At Derelict Sandown Hotel

(c) Anthony Edward

A blaze that tore through a derelict hotel in Sandown on Saturday evening (October 18) is being treated as suspected arson.

Emergency services were called to the former Cygnet Hotel, on the corner of Carter Street and Broadway, shortly after 6pm.

The fire quickly spread through the roof of the disused building, sending smoke across the area.

Crews from across the Island – including Shanklin, Ryde, Ventnor, Freshwater and East Cowes – were joined by firefighters from Waterlooville on the mainland.

In total, six fire engines, two aerial ladder platforms and two water carriers were used to tackle the blaze.

Residents nearby were advised to keep windows and doors closed overnight due to the smoke, while people were urged to avoid the area as emergency services worked through the night.

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service confirmed that no injuries were reported.

Firefighters remained on scene overnight damping down, with an investigation team now working alongside police to determine the cause of the fire.

A spokesperson for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary said enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information should call 101, quoting reference 44250472994.

There have been a number of fires at derelict hotels across the Island in recent years, including previous incidents at the same site.