A major fire broke out at the former Odeon cinema on St George's Place in Canterbury, attracting the attention of the Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) which responded aggressively with 15 fire engines as it tackled the blaze. Local residents were advised to keep their doors and windows closed to protect themselves from the smoke, which was drifting through the neighborhood at considerable intensity. This precaution was deemed necessary as smoke and flames billowed from the derelict building, raising safety concerns among the community.

The fire started around 2 PM, and as KFRS personnel fought the flames, it became evident that the situation was serious enough to warrant the closure of nearby roads. This action caused significant disruptions, with travel delays reported in and around Canterbury as diversions were put in place to ensure safety. By approximately 5 PM, fire officials indicated that they were making good progress in battling the blaze with the use of hose-reel jets, but crews remained on-site to ensure complete extinguishment and to monitor for flare-ups.

The incident at the former cinema not only illustrates the potential hazards associated with abandoned structures, but it also highlights the importance of prompt emergency response in protecting both life and property. The efforts by KFRS to bring the fire under control and protect the community from smoke inhalation reflect the ongoing challenges faced in urban areas with aging infrastructure. As the fire service continued its operations, local residents expressed concern about the safety of vacant buildings within their vicinity and the broader implications for community safety and wellbeing.