East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service were called at 6pm today (25 Jan 2022) to reports of a fire coming from a manhole on Kings Road, near to West Street.
People are asked to avoid the area and work is currently being carried out to try to isolate utilities. The cause hasn't been confirmed however it's being treated an electrical fire.
Nearby buildings have been evacuated and a cordon is in place.
The council has quickly established a rest centre nearby at the Brighton Centre where support is being provided to the evacuated people.
There are no reports of injuries.
East Sussex Fire & Rescue, Sussex Police and city council staff remain in attendance, supporting residents, directing traffic and in contact with utility providers.
If you normally travel along Kings Road in the morning, we suggest you plan an alternative route to give yourself extra time, just in case the cordons remain in place.