LIVE: Fire crews on scene tackling huge blaze at hotel on Blackpool Promenade - latest updates

Emergency services are on the scene tackling a huge blaze at a Blackpool hotel this afternoon (April 24). Plumes of smoke can be seen billowing overhead as the fire rips through the property on the Promenade.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed they are in attendance tackling the fire on Queens Promenade. It is understood that the building ablaze is the New Hacketts hotel, LancsLive reports.

People in the area are being warned to keep doors and windows closed if they can smell smoke with members of the public are advised to avoid the area.

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Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said in a statement at around 3.30pm this afternoon (April 24): "We have currently got 8 fire engines and 2 aerial ladder platforms responding to a building fire on Queens Promenade, Blackpool.

"If you can see or smell smoke, keep your windows and doors shut."

This is a breaking incident. See updates below.

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The latest update on traffic service Inrix said: "A584 Queen's Promenade in both directions partially blocked, queueing traffic due to building fire between King Edward Avenue and A584 / Dickson Road / B5265 (Gynn Square) Gynn Square. Congestion to minor routes around the A584 as traffic diverts."

The building was boarded up by the Blackpool Council in the summer of 2020. Later that year, a fire ripped through the upper floors of the building.

Since then, the former hotel has been plauged with fires, with the latest one being just last month.

Blackpool Police said in a statement:

Please be advised that due to a fire we have had to close Queens Prom in Blackpool from the junction with King Edward Street and