Third fire at Portlands Blue Circle building in Northfleet

A former community club has been hit by fire for at least the third time.

Fire crews were called to a blaze at the former Portlands Blue Circle Community Club, in High Street, Northfleet,, at around 5.30pm yesterday (Sunday).

Six fire engines and a height vehicle attended the property, also known as the Factory Club, and people were asked to avoid the area and residents were advised to close windows.

Crews wearing breathing apparatus put out the flames and were able to leave shortly after 10pm.

There is little visible damage to the Grade II-listed building this morning, although a smell of burning is still present.

There has previously been a substantial blaze at the building in December 2022, and also in July last year.

The premises has been empty for more than 30 years.

It was built in 1878 by the cement manufacturer Thomas Bevan.

There were no reported injuries in this last blaze. The cause is not yet known.