Scaffolding at Royal Albion hotel in Brighton at risk of ‘catastrophic failure’

Scaffolding at the fire-damaged Royal Albion hotel on the Brighton seafront is at risk of “catastrophic failure”, according to reports from structural engineers.

The Royal Albion was engulfed in flames for over 36 hours in summer 2023 as a result of a discarded cigarette.

Owner Britannia Hotels was charged for all costs incurred during demolition and safety work at the hotel, which amounted to at least £500,000.

However, a recent report from the engineers contracted on site stated that part of the fire-damaged section of the building that still remains standing is at risk of collapse.

Brighton & Hove City Council closed part of the A259 King’s Road near the hotel to the west of Brighton Palace Pier due to a safety risk.  

Britannia Hotels has also been ordered to carry out risk assessments and to put up safety barriers around the structure to prevent people from entering the premises.

Work started over the weekend and is expected to continue this week.

Councillor Trevor Muten, cabinet member for transport, parking and public realm at Brighton & Hove City Council, said: “While this will cause major disruption in the city centre, public safety is our biggest priority so it’s vital we do everything we can to minimise any risk.

“The responsibility for making the structure safe, informing affected residents and businesses and the cost is with Britannia, but the council will be overseeing the work to ensure safety of the public.

He added: “We’ve stressed to Britannia the urgency of this work and getting the road reopened quickly. I’d like to apologise for the inconvenience this will cause to residents and visitors, and thank everyone for their patience while this structure is made safe.” 

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