Fire services battle major blaze at Waterford city commercial premises

No casualties have been reported, however the building has been extensively damaged and fire service operations continue at the site this morning. Photo: Waterford City and County Council

Emergency services remain at the scene of a major fire in an industrial estate in Waterford city.

The blaze broke out on Saturday evening in the Tycor Businesses Park area of the city in the former Jute factory.

Fire brigades from Waterford City Fire Service, Tramore, Dunmore East, Portlaw and Dungarvan were drafted to tackle the blaze, which broke out at the commercial premises at around 6.30pm yesterday.

Flames from the warehouse could reportedly be seen from nearby Walsh Park in the closing minutes of the Waterford v Cork Munster Senior Hurling Championship match.

Fire at Old Jute Factory, Waterford City. Photo: Waterford City and County Council

In a statement, Waterford City Council said: "Waterford Fire Services have brought a major fire that broke out on Saturday evening in a commercial premises at the old Jute Factory in Tycor, Waterford city under control."

"No casualties have been reported, however the building has been extensively damaged and fire service operations continue at the site this morning. Waterford City and County Council is advising members of the public to avoid the area as operations continue."

"The public is advised to avoid the area around the old Jute Factory, and residents are also advised to keep windows closed."

It is understood that some local residents have been evacuated and there are traffic restrictions in place.

The cause of the fire is not known; however, investigations are ongoing.