An arson probe has been launched after a derelict and “dangerous” former Thornaby hotel was set alight.
Firefighters were called to The Golden Eagle on Sunday (April 27) after flames were spotted pouring from a section of the disused building at around 5.17pm.
Pictures from the scene showed smoke billowing from the building, which is due to be demolished later this year, as six fire engines worked to tackle the blaze.
Cleveland Police has now confirmed that the fire is being investigated as arson.
As previously reported, a cordon was erected at the Trenchard Avenue building on Sunday while 999 crews worked at the scene for several hours.
Cleveland Fire Brigade sent fire engines from Coulby Newham, Middlesbrough, Stockton, and Thornaby, and used a hydraulic platform at the scene.
The fire service said the building was left with 50% fire damage and 100% smoke damage to the first floor. The impact on other floors is not known.
There was not believed to be anyone in the building at the time.
The incident came just weeks after police warned the public to stay aware from the structure after men clambered onto the roof.
The Golden Eagle, which has been a key part of the town since the 1970s, has been closed for several years but was known as a “true diamond in the rough” during its heyday.
Last October, Stockton Council took control of the “rotting” building, ending years of uncertainty over the future of the site.
The demolition forms part of huge regeneration plans for the town, with the former Phoenix House, which previously stood next door, set to become home to a new swimming pool, gym, and leisure facility.
Security beefed up
Security is now being beefed up at the site, with metal shutters due to be installed today as part of pre-planned enhanced security measures.
Councillor Richard Eglington, Stockton Council’s cabinet member for regeneration and housing, said: “We’re assisting partners with the investigation into the fire at The Golden Eagle in Thornaby.
"We have structurally inspected the building which is in Council control and set to be demolished later in the year.
“In the meantime, we’re continuing to work with Cleveland Police to urge residents to keep away from the building. Anyone entering is putting their health at risk.”
A statement from police previously said: “A fire at the derelict Golden Eagle Hotel on Trenchard Avenue in Thornaby is now under control.
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“Police and firefighters have been tackling the blaze since 5.20pm this evening, Sunday 27th April.
“Whilst there is no immediate danger to the public, we would advise to avoid the area where possible due to smoke in the air.
“Enquiries to establish whether the fire is suspicious will be carried out by Cleveland Fire Service once the scene has cooled.”
Cleveland Fire Brigade said: "Cleveland Fire Brigade was called on April 27 at 5.17pm to an incident at the Golden Eagle Hotel, Trenchard Avenue, Thornaby.
"Six fire engines in attendance from Grangetown, Hartlepool, Thornaby, Middlesbrough and Stockton, including the Hydraulic Platform.
"This was a fire at a derelict building with 50% fire damage to the first floor.
"Two jets and nine breathing apparatus used. We got the stop call at 8.35pm. The cause is believed to be deliberate.”
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