Limavady fire has now been "dealt with" says NI Fire and Rescue Service

The NI Fire and Rescue Service said: “A fire at a derelict two-storey commercial premises on Catherine Street in Limavady has now been dealt with.

“The initial call was received at 5.42pm on Thursday 30 May. Our Firefighters worked tirelessly throughout the duration of the incident to ensure that the fire was brought under control and to extinguish the fire.

“Appliances from Northland, Crescent Link, Strabane, Limavady, Dungiven and Coleraine Fire Stations attended the incident.

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

“Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used four hose reels and two jets to extinguish the fire. The fire caused a number of gas canisters inside the building to explode.

“The cause of the fire is believed to have been deliberate ignition and the incident was dealt with by 12.30am (Friday 31 May). The roads in the area were closed to traffic and the scene was left with PSNI.”

DUP East Londonderry representative Gregory Campbell said: “Everyone is relieved that no one was injured. All credit to the Fire Service who worked tirelessly to bring this blaze under control.

"There has been incredible upheaval and disruption over the last 18 hours but most of the town and people are getting on with their normal activities. Hopefully remaining issues will be resolved as quickly as possible”.

East Londonderry MLA Claire Sugden said: “This fire will have shocked the people of Limavady, with the fire particularly concerning due to the fact it is believed to have contained asbestos.

“I would like to praise the response of NI Fire Service, which included members and equipment from as far afield as Strabane, Magherafelt and Coleraine.

“I am also glad that the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council are involved to investigate the believed presence of asbestos in the building."

A spokesperson for Causeway Coast and Glens Council said: “As a priority Council is working with multi-agency partners in response to this ongoing incident.

"Council will engage with the local businesses directly impacted to support where possible. Members of the public should adhere to signage, cordons and take on board advice from relevant personnel.”