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McDonald's restaurant in Newbridge extensively damaged in fire

Updated / Tuesday, 15 Aug 2023 19:43

The McDonald's restaurant in Newbridge, Co Kildare, has been extensively damaged following a fire in the building this afternoon.

It is understood the blaze started after a car that was under the restaurant's canopy went on fire, with the flames rapidly spreading to the building.

Thick smoke engulfed the area and gardaí diverted traffic away from the scene.

The restaurant was evacuated and there are no reports of any injuries.

The fire has been extinguished and all emergency personnel have left the scene.

Gardaí say that all traffic diversions that were in place have been lifted and the Moorefield Road has been reopened.

The restaurant was evacuated and there are no reports of any injuries (Pic: Tristan J Kelly)

Chief Fire Officer Niall O'Riordan said that the fire was reported at around 11.30am.

In a statement this evening, McDonald's said it will continue to work with authorities to assess the extent of the damage to their restaurant in Newbridge.

It said their franchise partner will be meeting with staff to discuss alternative working arrangements while the restaurant remains closed.

A spokesperson said 90 staff were employed in Newbridge.

'Really shocked'

An eyewitness has said she was "afraid and really shocked" when the fire broke out across the road from her home.

Natalia Pokryfka told RTÉ News: "I just saw big flames and saw the car on fire, and after a couple of minutes, the fire caught the building and there were huge flames. A lot of smoke.

"I was scared the fire was going to spread to the KFC that is right behind it, or to the houses, but thankfully it didn't. I was really afraid."

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