A FIRE in the basement of a large block of flats sparked a huge emergency response.
Police and fire crews remain at the scene on Hastings seafront and are urging drivers to avoid the area.
Road closures are in place as emergency teams continue to work at the scene.
Scroll to the bottom of the page for the latest update from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service.
A Sussex Police spokesman said:"We were called to assist East Sussex Fire and Rescue at the scene of a fire in the basement of a large block of flats in Marina, St Leonards, at 7.10am.
"London Road at the junction of the A259 and Filsham Road are both currently closed and motorists are being directed away from the area while emergency services deal with the incident."
At the height of the incident this morning, 14 fire engines were sent to the scene.
Ambulance crews also attended, but there have been no reports of any casualties.
An East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman said: "Please avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed to avoid breathing in smoke.”
An AA traffic report warned motorists of the ongoing road closures in place around the scene of the incident.
It stated: "The road is closed due to a building fire on the A259 Grand Parade both ways between Burton Way and Warrior Square.
"A detour is in operation - affecting Stagecoach services 98 and 99.
"Fire services are in attendance at a building fire at Marine Court along the A259 seafront."
Update - 10.32am
An East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman said: "At 0703am, we were called to attend a fire in the basement of Marine Court, Hastings.
"At the height of the incident, we had 14 appliances in attendance (approximately 70 personnel).
"Crews used breathing apparatus and main jets to extinguish the fire.
"Firefighters are currently inspecting the building and providing reassurance to all residents. Affected residents were evacuated.
"A Fire Investigation will take place later on today.
"We are being supported by Sussex Police and the South East Coast Ambulance Service along with local authority and building management."
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