More than four firefighting units were deployed to tackle the 12-metre-high blaze at the Old Jute Factory. While no injuries have been reported, emergency services remain at the scene and the building has suffered extensive damage.
Waterford City and County Council has urged members of the public to avoid the area while works continue. However, several nearby business owners have voiced concerns over the safety of surrounding properties.
Among those affected is DG Foods, which thanked emergency services and Waterford gardaí for their efforts to protect the company’s premises and storage facility.
In a statement shared on social media, the Hepburn family described the fire as a major setback for the business but said they were thankful nobody was hurt.
They said operations at their Six Cross Roads Business Park premises have not been impacted and that business will continue as normal. The family added that DG Foods Wholesale, DG Retail and Press Coffee are committed to recovering from the incident and thanked staff across the group for their support and messages.
Meanwhile, Waterford City and County Council said it has not yet been confirmed whether the damaged building had an asbestos cement roof. As a precaution, the council is proceeding on the assumption that asbestos may be present.
Environmental consultants and construction specialists are continuing to assess the site as investigations into the cause of the fire continue.
Members of the public who are close to the site are advised to:
· Close windows and doors
· Do not touch / remove any debris
· Dampen down or lightly sprinkle surface dust particles with water
· Do not cut / mow grass
Anyone who is experiencing health effects is advised to seek medical attention.
