Fire Guts Derelict Paceville Nightclub

Blaze Engulfs Former Paceville Nightclub

In the early hours of Tuesday, a fierce fire broke out at the derelict former nightclub, Club 19, in the heart of Paceville, sending plumes of smoke into the night sky and causing a stir among the nearby residents and revellers.

Firefighters Battle the Blaze

The Malta Fire Service swiftly responded, deploying multiple vehicles and around 30 firefighters to tackle the inferno. The blaze was so intense that it could be seen from several kilometres away, with some residents comparing it to a ‘fireball’.

Firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the fire, which spread to the adjacent buildings, including a popular café and a block of flats. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, and residents were quickly evacuated.

Paceville: A Ghost of Its Former Self

Once the pulsating heart of Malta’s nightlife, Paceville has seen a decline in recent years, with many clubs closing down and buildings falling into disrepair. The fire at Club 19, a once-thriving venue now reduced to a burnt-out shell, serves as a stark reminder of this change.

Local residents and business owners have long been calling for regeneration in the area. “It’s about time something is done about these derelict buildings,” said a nearby café owner, who wished to remain anonymous. “They’re an eyesore and a safety hazard.”

Investigation Launched

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest it may have been started deliberately. Inspector Joseph Mercieca from the Malta Police told Hot Malta, “We are treating this as a case of arson until we can rule out all other possibilities.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact the police on 119 or anonymously through the ‘Stop Number’ app.