A SEARCH of the Aberystwyth seafront hotel that was severely damaged in a fire is expected to take “a number of weeks”, authorities have warned.

Structural instability of the Ty Belgrave Hotel has meant that investigators looking into the fire have not been able to access the building more than three weeks after the blaze left people in Aberystwyth in shock.

There are fears that a Lithuanian man who was staying in the hotel may have died in the fire.

Investigators are expected to be able to get into Ty Belgrave early next week, but police said the search of the building is expected to take some time.

A spokesperson said: “Following the fire at Ty Belgrave Hotel in Aberystwyth during the early hours of Wednesday, 25 July, efforts have been ongoing to make safe the remains of the building structure so that the search phase can begin.

“Given that these activities are nearing completion the public can expect to see an increase in police activity in the near future as investigators begin the search phase in an effort to locate the missing male and gather further evidence in respect of the fire.

“The search phase is expected to take a number of weeks but no additional disruption to the site and surrounding area is anticipated.

“Dyfed-Powys Police, together with Ceredigion County Council, continue to do all possible to expedite proceedings and minimise disruption to those in the locality.

“The local community and those visiting the town during the height of the holiday season are thanked for their cooperation and understanding during this time.”

A man is currently in custody after being charged with arson with intent to endanger life.

Damion Harris, 30, of Llwyn Onn, Pwllhobi is due to appear in Swansea Crown Court on 24 August.