Firefighters tackled a large blaze in a derelict building which is believed to have been started deliberately.

Crews were called at 9.40pm to the empty unit along West Street in Gravesend on Saturday (September 23).

Four fire engines and a height vehicle attended the scene, where crews wearing breathing apparatus used hose reel jets to extinguish the flames.

Police also assisted and the road was reportedly closed during this time.

A nearby resident captured the blaze on video, which he suspects was started by youths who allegedly often gain access to the building.

“Plywood boards have been put up to try and keep people out of the site and off the steps up the side of the pier, but they get smashed in,” he said.

“The fire got very big for a while and firefighters went into the cottage next door.

“It took about an hour before it was completely out and crews were on-site for a good two hours – as were the police, who several neighbours including myself, spoke to.”

He added: “From the front it looks undamaged, but I expect it is gutted and the flat roof is now sagging.”

The site is part of the Clifton Slipway project, which is owned by Quinn Estates.

Plans were approved in 2020 to construct two buildings, which would create 227 homes and restore the pier to provide amenity space.

The fire service confirmed the blaze was extinguished by 11.16pm and no injuries were reported. They believe it was started deliberately.

Police are currently conducting enquiries to determine the cause of the fire, which has been deemed suspicious.

No arrests have yet been made.