A beach hut valued at £50,000 was destroyed by fire on the exclusive Sandbanks peninsula in Poole, Dorset, on Wednesday afternoon. The fire, believed to have been sparked by a faulty cooker, erupted in a second-floor cabin.
Fire crews were called to the scene at approximately 5:30 p.m. on July 29, responding to concerns that gas canisters within the hut could explode and spread the blaze. Social media images depicted flames engulfing the roof of several huts, with one cabin appearing completely charred and thick smoke billowing into the sky.
Firefighters from Westbourne and Poole stations worked to extinguish the fire, which was fully put out by 8 p.m. Officials from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service and Dorset Police confirmed that a small camping stove was the cause of the incident. Gas canisters were present in the hut and were safely removed by emergency services.
No individuals were injured as a result of the fire. Residents and beachgoers watched as emergency services responded to the incident. Police asked the public to avoid the immediate area to allow firefighters unobstructed access to hydrants.
Sandbanks is renowned as a wealthy enclave, often referred to as a "millionaires' playground." Detached homes in the area command an average price of £1.75 million. The beach huts, which are highly sought after, rarely become available. Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council maintains a waiting list for prospective buyers. While sales are infrequent, beach huts in the area can be rented for an annual fee of £3,600.