Builder warns fire crews about gas cylinders during Primark blaze

by Gráinne Connolly

A builder who was working across the road from Primark in Belfast when it burst into flames has told Q Radio he warned fire crews just how dangerous the site was, after spotting gas cylinders on its roof. 

At this stage, the historic building was already on fire with the potential to get worse. 

Speaking from the scene, the construction worker who didn't want to be named, says the blaze "was too far gone" for the emergency services to tackle before it reached the gas: 

The incident is still ongoing and the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service says it's likely to continue throughout the rest of the day. 

There's a large plume of smoke in the area and residents and businesses in the City Centre are being advised to keep their windows and doors closed as a precautionary measure. 

The roof of the historic Primark building in Belfast City Centre has now caved in as flames continue to tear through the store. pic.twitter.com/oPiiWEVGcX

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) August 28, 2018

Fire crews are continuing to battle the fire in Belfast City Centre and the public are being asked to stay away from the Castle Street and Royal Avenue areas.

This is the current view of the Primark Bank Building. 

Credit: Alan Lewis

Here's the extraordinary view from High Street. The historic Primark building in Belfast City Centre completely engulfed in thick black smoke. pic.twitter.com/6eya5SMeRE

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) August 28, 2018

In the brief moments the smoke clears the extent of damage to the Primark building in Belfast City Centre becomes clear. The recently refurbished building appears to have been gutted. pic.twitter.com/jHOyC0f13z

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) August 28, 2018