A derelict house has caught fire in Rottingdean, closing the A259 and causing major delays.

The house is well ablaze and is at the junction of Cranleigh Avenue and the A259 coast road.

Gas canisters have been discovered near the house, leading to the closure of the coast road in both directions.

Fire crews were called at 3.30pm to reports of persons trapped in the house but it is believed the house is derelict.

Stephen Lawrence, who lives in Bannings Vale, said: "You could see the plumes of smoke darkening the sky from my home more than a mile away."

Sussex Police have now confirmed the A259 is closed between the junction with Rottingdean High Street and the Saltdean Lido which is causing significant disruption.

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A spokesman for East Sussex Fire and Rescue said firefighters were struggling to control the flames because water pressure in the area was so low.

A request has been sent for more water from outside the area.

Seven fire engines are in attendance along with two water bowsers and the aerial ladder platform.

An Incident Command Unit is also in attendance.

Four main jets are being used along with foam.

Traffic is severely delayed along the coast road as six fire engines battle to bring the blaze under control.

Diversions are in place between the junction of the A259 and Rottingdean High Street and the Saltdean Lido roundabout.

However, police are recommending that if you are able to avoid the area, you should do so and consider a longer route before meeting the jams.



A Sussex Police spokesman said: "The presence of gas canisters has increased the hazards presented by the fire and led to the road closure. It is anticipated that it will remain into the early evening."

Those looking to head eastbound on the A27 instead are experiencing long delays after an incident at A277 Brighton Road / Ashcombe Hollow (Ashcombe Roundabout).

There is congestion to Coldean Lane, Carden Avenue and Ditchling Road.

There have been mixed reports on whether there is a broken down vehicle or there is an accident near the Ashcombe roundabout.

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More to follow.