Wednesday 29th April 2026

By Bridlington Gold Radio Editor

A major fire at the derelict former Balmoral Hotel on Fort Terrace in Bridlington is now being treated as suspected arson, Humberside Police have confirmed.

Firefighters were called to the unoccupied building at around 9.30pm on Tuesday (28th April), sending six fire engines after flames broke out on the first floor at the rear before spreading to upper levels and into the roof. It is the second fire at the property in four months, following a December blaze that led to the discovery of 198 cannabis plants worth an estimated £110,000.

Police said neighbouring properties were evacuated as a precaution while crews worked to bring the fire under control. A cordon was put in place overnight, and while most residents have since been allowed to return, a small number remain affected as safety checks continue.

Humberside Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the blaze was contained in the early hours of Wednesday, with the response scaled back to two fire engines and an aerial platform. Crews are expected to remain on site throughout the day to monitor hotspots.

No injuries have been reported.

Police say extensive enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances of the incident, with officers carrying out house‑to‑house checks and reviewing local CCTV.

A spokesperson said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the start of the fire, has CCTV footage in the area, or has any further information that may help with our enquiries, to contact us on 101 quoting log 557 of 28th April 2026.”

Road closures on The Promenade, between Westmoreland Avenue and Princess Terrace, have now been lifted.

The former 34‑bedroom hotel has been empty since closing in 2019. Fire investigators say determining the cause “may be tricky” due to the building’s derelict condition and the absence of gas or electrical supply.

Despite the disruption, East Riding Leisure Bridlington remains open and accessible, the council confirmed.