Update of Fire at Royal Hotel Dingwall

14 Feb - 17 year old arrested over fire

Issued by HISCG - Highlands & Islands Strategic Co-ordinating Group

Emergency services are continuing to deal with a building fire at the Royal Hotel in Dingwall.

The fire was reported at around 03.00. Eight fire engines from Highlands and Islands Fire and Rescue Service were deployed, an aerial ladder platform and a water carrier.

Police and ambulance responded to the call along with 45 firefighters from Dingwall, Bonar Bridge, Nairn, Fortrose, Drumnadrochit and Inverness.
They were tackling a fire within internal walls, roof space and voids. Breathing Apparatus (BA) teams are continuing a systematic search of the building to ensure no-one is trapped within the premises and further BA teams are continuing to fight a deep seated fire.

Police say that road closures are in place on Hill Street and High Street with a contraflow operating on Station Road which allows access to the public for essential services including the hospital.

The existing Police cordon will remain in place for the next two to three hours. Following multi-agency consultation the cordon may then be lifted in areas except in the vicinity of the lane running alongside the hotel and the five surrounding properties.

There are currently no reports of any fatalities. Five neighbouring properties were evacuated.

The Police cordon remains in place at this time. Any property owners returning to the area will be directed to Highland Council for assistance.

A joint Police and Fire investigation is due to take place to establish the cause of the fire.

Anyone who may have been in the area on or before 0300 and saw anything is urged to contact Police in Dingwall on 01349 862222.