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Police have launched an arson investigation following a significant fire that engulfed a derelict school building on Seabrook Road in Hythe. The blaze, which required nine fire engines and specialized equipment to bring under control, caused no reported injuries but has possibly left the structure unsafe.
Kent Police were alerted to the fire at the former school site on Thursday, July 31, 2025, with authorities believing the inferno started between 7:00pm and 10:00pm. Fire crews battled the flames through the night, with residents in the vicinity advised to keep windows and doors closed due to a large plume of smoke blanketing the area.
At the height of the incident, Kent Fire and Rescue Service deployed nine fire engines, a height vehicle, and a technical rescue unit. Firefighters, equipped with breathing apparatus, utilized main jets to extinguish the extensive blaze. By Friday morning, the situation was largely under control, with firefighting operations officially concluding by 3:30pm today. The cause of the fire is currently unknown, but due to the suspicious nature of the incident, an arson investigation is now actively underway. Authorities are appealing to the public for assistance.
Police are urging anyone with information, CCTV footage, or dashcam footage that could aid the investigation to contact Kent Police at 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/132628/25. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555111 or via their online form.