Fire forces evacuation of student flats near former Canterbury cinema

Editor

February 15, 2026
3 min read

Fire forces evacuation of student flats near former Canterbury cinema

Fire crews were called at 2pm on Saturday after a blaze broke out at a derelict former Odeon cinema in St George’s Place, with the Canterbury fire leading to the evacuation of nearby student accommodation and businesses as smoke drifted across the city centre.

More than 60 firefighters were deployed at the height of the Canterbury fire to tackle the flames at the building just off the ring road. Crews remained at the scene into Sunday morning, continuing a reduced operation to ensure the area was safe.

UK News — More from EyeOnLondon

National reporting covering culture, policy and public life across the United Kingdom.

Carriage designed by Baz Luhrmann unveiled

A theatrical transport design shaped by film director Baz Luhrmann brings cinematic influence to British heritage craft.

Read: Carriage designed by Baz Luhrmann

First cousin marriage guidance sparks debate

New guidance raises legal, medical and cultural questions around first cousin marriage in the UK.

Read: First cousin marriage guidance

Stabbing at Kingsbury High School investigated

Police investigate a serious incident at Kingsbury High School as authorities respond to safety concerns.

Read: Stabbing at Kingsbury High School

Students living in adjacent accommodation blocks were asked to leave as a precaution, along with staff from several nearby businesses. Canterbury City Council coordinated the evacuation and established a welfare centre for those affected.

A spokesperson for Kent Fire and Rescue Service said light smoke remained in the area on Sunday and advised local residents to keep windows and doors closed.

Road closures were put in place around the scene, with motorists warned to expect delays when travelling through the city centre.

The cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed.

For updates on major incidents and independent reporting across London and the South East, follow EyeOnLondon.

[Image Credit | Kent Online]

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!

We value your thoughts! Share your feedback and help us make EyeOnLondon even better!

About Author

Editor

Emma Trehane founded EyeOnLondon in 2021 and leads the publication as it continues to grow as a digital platform covering the arts, culture and ideas shaping London. With a background in the Humanities, Communications and Media, she moved into the city’s literary and cultural world before working in editing and media consultancy. Through EyeOnLondon she brings together writers, critics and specialists who share a curiosity about London and the wider world around it.