Work to repair a community hall that was “seriously damaged” by a fire in 2024 has been delayed following a second fire that broke out on 2 March 2025, a district council has reported
In March 2024, Essex Fire and Rescue Service (EFRS) crews were alerted to a significant blaze at the popular Burrsville Public Hall in Great Clacton. Owned by Tendring District Council, and at the time, station manager Nick Singleton confirmed the roof, doors, and windows had been “badly damaged” by the severity of the blaze. As reported by the Daily Gazette, the hall interior was “left in a bad condition” with the outside decking also suffering considerable damage. The cause of the fire was later deemed “undetermined”.
The council’s insurers had arranged for the hall to be restored, with work beginning in January 2025 and earmarked for completion in mid-April. However, a second fire that broke out in early March has led to repairs being delayed due to additional damage to the building and some storage sheds.
Cabinet Member for Assets at the Council, Peter Kotz said: “We are deeply saddened and frustrated by the recent fire at Burrsville Public Hall.
“Work had begun in January to restore the hall following last year’s fire.
“Sadly, the building and some nearby sheds were damaged by a further fire on Sunday evening.”
As reported by BBC News, A joint investigation is now underway to determine the cause of the fire, with a spokesperson for Essex Police saying: “Alongside colleagues at Essex Fire and Rescue Service, we're investigating an incident in Gorse Lane, Clacton, which took place shortly after 23:00 on Sunday 2 March.”
Kotz added: “Due to this latest incident, a further insurance claim and additional works will be necessary, meaning it will now take longer before the building is back in use.
“The fire was mainly confined to storage sheds, but it also affected fencing and a neighbour’s shed.
“One of the doors to the rear of the building has been damaged and will now need to be replaced, and a section of the building gable that had just been replaced needs to be repaired again.
“Fortunately, the fire didn’t catch the roof trusses, which had just been ice-blasted to clean off the smoke damage from the previous fire.
“We are working closely with the authorities to investigate these incidents and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
“In the meantime, we remain committed to restoring the hall to its former glory as quickly as possible.
“We appreciate the community's patience and support while this latest incident is investigated.”
(Photograph by Tendring District Council)