A major fire has been brought under control in the Tycor area of Waterford city.
Several units of the Waterford fire service from Tramore, Dunmore East, Portlaw and Dungarvan attended the scene of the blaze at the old Jute Factory.
No casualties have been reported, however, the building has been extensively damaged and fire service operations continue at the site this morning.
Significant flames could be seen - some believed to be up to 12 metres in height - since the closing stages of the Waterford versus Cork match in the Munster Senior Hurling Championship at nearby Walsh Park yesterday evening.
Waterford City and County Council said in an update this morning that the "major fire" that broke out at the old Jute Factory in Tycor had been brought under control.
The council again advised members of the public to avoid the area as operations continue.
Business owners have expressed serious concerns about the damage to surrounding industrial units in the business centre.
One of the business owners, DG Foods, has thanked the fire services and Waterford gardaí for trying to save their store and storage unit in the Tycor Business Centre.
In a post on social media, the Hepburn family said: "This will be a blip in our business and a major set back, but thank God there has been no injuries.
"We will pick ourselves up in the morning and keep our business running as per usual in the six cross roads business park as this has not been affected.
"DG Foods Wholesale, DG Retail & Press Coffee will be working even harder to get over this set back, can I also thank our staff across the group for the messages," the post concluded.
Waterford City and County Council has said that while the presence of an asbestos bound cement roof on the fire-torn building has not been confirmed, following a risk assessment, it is proceeding on the basis that asbestos is present.
The local authority has said an analysis of the situation is being carried out and it is liaising with an environmental consultant and construction specialist.
Watch: Extensive damage following major fire in Waterford city
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As a precautionary measure, the council is advising members of the public within the immediate vicinity of the site 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.
