Alexander Centre in Faversham shuts events space after New Year’s Eve fire

Fire at The Alexander Centre in Faversham

The main stage and events space at The Alexander Centre will remain closed “until further notice” after a fire described as a “community treasure” occurred.

On New Year’s Eve, smoke was visible coming from The Alexander Centre in Faversham, spreading across the town center.

A firefighting crane was used to access the roof of the burning building.

The fire started in the roof of Gatefield Hall, located at the rear of the building, which hosts gigs and shows.

Fire Response and Investigation

Fire crews were called shortly after 2 PM last Wednesday. A police cordon was set up around the building on Preston Street for about 24 hours, reopening on New Year’s Day afternoon.

At the peak of the incident, nine fire engines and a height vehicle were present. No injuries were reported as the building was empty at the time.

A fire service spokesman stated that the cause of the blaze is “believed to be accidental due to an electrical fault.”

Venue’s Statement and Future Plans

The venue’s management confirmed that Gatefield Hall will remain closed for assessments and repairs. Fortunately, there was “no damage to any of the heritage areas” at The Alexander Centre.

Once the rooms are cleaned, the heritage side of the building will reopen for use and hire. The management hopes to welcome tenants back next week.

A professional cleaning team is on-site to restore the bar area, lounge, and kitchen as soon as possible.

The venue is working with local partners to relocate as many events as possible and will provide updates.

Impact on Upcoming Events

Upcoming events in the auditorium space will be affected. The team is reviewing all bookings as a priority.

Customers will be contacted directly with information about their events, including options for rescheduling, relocation, or refunds.

Some upcoming events include Taskmaster star Mark Watson in January and former Britain’s Got Talent contestant Jack Carroll in March.

Community Response

Residents were advised to keep windows and doors closed due to smoke for several hours. The warning was lifted on New Year’s Day morning.

Resident Terry Hope described witnessing the fire and expressed concern for the venue, stating it is vital to the community.

Another witness noted that people were worried about anyone being inside the building when they saw the smoke.

Faversham mayor Cllr Josh Rowlands called the venue one of the “best-loved” in the town and expressed relief that no one was hurt.

Town councillor Hannah Perkin expressed sadness over the fire and thanked the fire brigade for their efforts.

Faversham’s MP Helen Whately referred to The Alexander Centre as a “community treasure” and thanked the firefighters for their work.