OLD derelict cinema buildings in Bournemouth are presenting "challenges" for Dorset's fire service.

Just weeks after fires in the cinema buildings in Westover Road, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service have confirmed they are holding discussions into the safety of the structures.

Emergency services were called to a fire which had been started deliberately in the old ABC cinema, and a second false alarm just days after. 

Now, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service said these buildings are presenting a “number of challenges” due to their age, construction, and layout.

Officials are attempting to find out who is responsible for their safety.

Read more: Fire at former cinema in Westover Road, Bournemouth

Group Manager Graham Kewley said: “We have been liaising with BCP Council’s environmental health and building control departments to better understand the current use and ownership, and to clarify responsibility for the safety of these buildings. We are also in contact with the current owners.

“Where parts of the building are undergoing renovation, or where they are currently subject to redevelopment, the responsibility for security rests with the developer/owner.

"Where the buildings are under refurbishment but not yet occupied, the owner retains responsibility for safety of the building under the construction, design and management regulations and other health and safety regulations.

Read more: Emergency services in Westover Road in Bournemouth

“Current fire safety legislation is limited in its scope to deal with unoccupied buildings.”

The fire service said they were also aware of unauthorised access to the building, with a number of “urban explorers” filming their break ins to the former cinemas for Youtube content.

The Daily Echo has previously reported on urban explorers inside the buildings.

Graham added: “Unauthorised access to the buildings by so-called “urban explorers” and rough sleepers remains a cause for concern and, as such, our response arrangements take the possibility of people being on the premises into account.

“Our operational crews regularly conduct visits to premises of interest on their station grounds. This includes reviewing properties such as these to develop and update response plans and to record risk information.”

BCP Council confirmed that they had been working with the fire service said: “We have been made aware of recent concerns in relation to the old cinema and ice rink complex in Westover Road.

"We are currently in discussion with colleagues, including Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, to consider what can be done to address the concerns raised and ensure the safety of these buildings.”