Dakota nightclub at Ringwood destroyed by fire

Dakota nightclub at Ringwood has been destroyed by fire.

A passer-by noticed flames coming out the door of the venue around 2.30am on Monday.

Fire crews arrived a short time later, with flames extending about 10 metres in the air.

The business was closed at the time and nobody was inside.

Neighbouring businesses have suffered minor smoke and water damage.

Police are hoping CCTV will help determine whether the fire was suspicious.

The witness who called Triple 0 said he saw a car fleeing the scene.