A 38-year-old man and a 21-year-old woman have been arrested in connection with a significant fire at the Grand Burstin Hotel in Folkestone. Kent Police stated that the arrests were made on suspicion of arson after the blaze broke out in the early hours of Saturday.
The fire led to the evacuation of approximately 280 people from the hotel on Marine Parade. An additional 90 individuals were relocated from Pavilion Court in Marine Terrace due to safety concerns raised by inspectors. The arrested pair have since been released pending further investigation.
Investigation Underway
Road closures remain in effect as police continue their investigation into the fire, which reportedly began around 1:20 AM BST. The incident is being treated as suspicious. Britannia Hotels Group, the owner of the Grand Burstin, confirmed its full cooperation with the police and stated that engineers and building inspectors were assessing the property.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service deployed 26 fire engines to the scene. The fire is believed to have originated in the hotel's basement. Structural assessments are ongoing, and the local council is assisting affected residents in finding alternative accommodation.
Witnesses described smoke billowing from the underground car park and reported hearing explosions. A welfare center was established for displaced guests, and some local businesses, including The Harbour Inn, offered assistance.