Major Blaze Near Newry City Centre: Firefighters Battle Ongoing Incident

Fifty firefighters are currently battling a major blaze near Newry city center at the Greenbank industrial estate. The fire, which started just before midday on Saturday, has prompted a massive response from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, with six pump appliances, two aerial appliances, and one control unit on the scene.

The operation to extinguish the blaze is ongoing, with fire officers from Newry, Warrenpoint, and Belfast all involved. The fire service has advised residents in the area to keep all windows and doors closed due to the intensity of the fire.

Paul Gould, NIFRS Group Commander, described the situation as complicated due to the layout and construction of the building. He expressed gratitude to local farmers who brought their slurry tanks to assist with providing water for the firefighting efforts.

The fire is located at a kart racing center and neighboring furniture showroom, with business-owner Selina Murphy expressing shock at the scene. The shop, known as the House of Murphy, has been in operation for 50 years, employing 11 people.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland has reported traffic standstills in the Warrenpoint Carriageway and Kilmorey Street areas, advising drivers to seek alternative routes. The fire has caused loud popping noises and large plumes of black smoke visible from miles away.

Former SDLP assembly member Karen McKevitt, who was at the scene, noted that the flames appeared to be spreading quickly, with thick black smoke billowing out. Local businesses in the area have evacuated as a precautionary measure.

As firefighters continue to battle the blaze throughout the night, the community is rallying together to support those affected by the fire. The emergency services are working tirelessly to protect the businesses in the industrial estate, with hopes that everyone remains safe amidst this major fire in Newry.