Dozens of firefighters tackle blaze at derelict building in Ballycastle

Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service received a call about the incident shortly after 8pm on Sunday (PA)

Concern has been voiced over a “devastating” fire at a historic building in Co Antrim.

Some 42 firefighters were battling the blaze at the derelict building at The Diamond in Ballycastle on Sunday night.

A Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) spokesperson said they received a call about the incident shortly after 8pm on Sunday.

“Currently 42 firefighters from stations in Ballycastle, Ballymoney and Portrush are attending,” a spokesperson said.

“Two aerial appliances, one from Northland Station and one from Springfield Station, are attending the incident along with a command support unit from Kilrea Station.

“Crews are currently working hard to bring the incident under control.

“Local residents are advised to keep windows and doors closed, and members of the public are asked to avoid the area to support firefighting operations.

“We would like to thank the public for their patience whilst we dealt with this incident.”

Sinn Fein councillor Cara McShane said the fire is at the Antrim Arms, a former hotel, which she described as a “cornerstone of heritage in the town”.

“I am deeply concerned by the devastating fire at the Antrim Arms in Ballycastle,” she said.

“My immediate thoughts are with local residents and businesses who will be affected by this incident.

“This is an historic building and a cornerstone of the heritage in the town. However the wellbeing and safety of those living in the immediate vicinity is my main concern right now.

“The health and safety of the emergency services is also paramount in tackling this blaze.”