Mop-up operations are under way at Margate Hotel after a fire tore through the landmark building in the early hours of Monday last week.

Built in 1932, the hotel has been a cherished venue in the seaside town of Margate.

“At the time of the incident, 11 rooms were occupied. Luckily, all occupants were accounted for,” said April.

He noted that the fire allegedly started in Room 304, and a suspect was taken in for questioning by police.

According to SAPS Ugu District Communications, an enquiry has been opened for investigation at SAPS Margate.

“No arrests were made, and no one was charged. The exact cause of the fire has yet to be established,” a spokesperson confirmed.

April stated that the hotel, which has wooden floors, has been badly affected and will remain closed for reconstruction.

“No injuries or fatalities were reported, and the restaurant sustained a bit of smoke damage; however, it will be able to continue operating,” he added.

The Margate Hotel’s spokesperson confirmed that the popular restaurant and pub, The Galleon Pub and Grill, reopened on Wednesday evening.

“Although the accommodation side of the hotel will remain closed until 2025, we plan to come back bigger and stronger,” he said.

April also mentioned that the establishment had fire hydrants, ensuring a sufficient water supply, and fire crews worked tirelessly to prevent the fire from spreading further.

He explained that 10 000 litres of water were used to suppress the blaze, with 11 firefighters from RNM, Ugu, and uMziwabantu fire services attending the scene.

“On arrival at 02:40, it was reported that about six rooms were fully engulfed. Fire teams from RNM and Ugu used four skid units and a small tanker with 2 000 litres of water from RNM, while Ugu brought a medium pumper, bakkie sakkie, and water tanker carrying 18 000 litres, as well as a fire engine from uMziwabantu Local Municipality,” he said.