AROUND 60 firefighters have been tackling a huge fire involving a block of flats in Westbourne this morning.

Fire, ambulance and police are all at the scene of the fire in Poole Road.

The road is expected to be closed for some time. 

We’ll be bringing you latest updates at the link below.

Here’s what we know so far.

What’s happened?

A fire broke out at a block of flats in Poole Road on Thursday morning, December 16.

The fire service was called to reports of a fire on the roof of the property at 7.12am. Police were called to the incident at 7.19am. 

What’s happened to residents?

A total of 62 residents have been evacuated from the affected part of the building, with 21 rescued by firefighters.

Three people have suffered smoke inhalation and have been treated at the scene by South Western Ambulance Service.

The nearby Premier Inn hotel has been providing shelter for those displaced, and officers from BCP Council are also attending to support those needing help. 

Which emergency services are attending?

Police, fire and ambulance are all on the scene. Around 60 firefighters are dealing with the fire.

Fire crews from Westbourne, Springbourne, Redhill Park, Christchurch, Poole, Ferndown, Ringwood, Wimborne, New Milton and Burley are in attendance.

Also on the scene are the aerial ladder platform from Westbourne, support appliances from Hamworthy and Dorchester, and a water carrier from Poole.

What road closures are in place?

Officers have attended to assist with putting road closures in place and evacuating the premises.

Poole Road is closed between the junction with Clarendon Road and Queens Road and the St Michaels Roundabout.

Are bus services affected?

Morebus said that its m1/m2/16/U4 services are diverting between Poole Hill and Grosvenor Road Westbourne.

People are being advised to check the Morebus website for full details.

A spokesperson said: “This may cause some delays to our services. Sorry for any inconvenience caused.”

Routes 1, 3, 18 and 36 are diverting until further notice.

Yellow Bues said: "We are sorry for the inconvenience to you journeys this morning. Please see our website for further information and details."

Is the fire out? 

The fire is now contained but firefighting operations are likely to continue for much of the day.

Poole Road is currently closed and will remain so for some hours.

What caused the fire? 

A fire investigation will be carried out later today but there are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances.