Business fire shuts down Gold Coast tourist strip

Multiple fire crews have rushed to the major tourist strip in the heart of Surfers Paradise after a fire broke out in a business.

It started in the commercial structure on Orchid Avenue around 2pm, taking seven fire crews about 45 minutes to fully extinguish.

Firefighters remain on scene making the area safe.

Queensland Police have warned the area is closed off.

“Orchid Avenue is closed between Elkhorn Avenue and Cavill Avenue due to a building fire,” QPS said in a statement.

“Motorists are urged to obey traffic directions and seek alternative routes.”