Residents in 17 flats near the Grade II* listed building have been forced to live away from their homes for almost three weeks since the fire.

The north side of the building, which faces Old Steine, will need to be removed before people can return to their flats.

A report to Brighton and Hove City Council described the “very difficult” time residents have faced since the fire on July 15.

The report said: “These residents are still out of their homes and they have been facing a very difficult time.

“So far, officers have made contact with residents from seven of the eight YHA flats and three of the nine from Lace House.”

Lace House, bottom of the picture. YHA building, left (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)

People living in eight flats in the neighbouring Youth Hostel Association (YHA) building and nine flats in the nearby Lace House will be unable to return to their homes until the burnt-out top floor on the north side of the Royal Albion is removed.

The owner Britannia Hotels will be charged for the £500,000 demolition bill once it is completed.

The report is due before a special meeting of the council’s strategy, finance and city regeneration committee scheduled for tomorrow.

The A259 is set to finally reopen westbound tonight after weeks of being closed.

It will close this weekend for the Brighton Pride parade on Saturday.