A significant fire has caused extensive damage to a building contractor in County Armagh, with preliminary estimates suggesting losses of around £1 million. Firefighters battled the blaze for hours in Milford, and the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has launched an investigation into the incident. The fire’s impact is expected to be widely felt due to the business’s role in the community and its contracts.
Key Takeaways
- An overnight fire caused approximately £1 million in damages to Mamo Building Services in Milford, County Armagh.
- Over 50 firefighters from multiple stations responded to the blaze.
- The PSNI is investigating the cause of the fire.
- The business is a long-established, family-run operation with significant contracts, including with the Housing Executive.
- The fire’s impact is anticipated to extend beyond the business itself to staff, customers, and suppliers.
Extensive Damage and Response
Firefighters were called to the commercial premises on Ballyards Road in Milford in the early hours of Saturday morning. At its peak, more than 50 firefighters from various stations across Northern Ireland worked to bring the fire under control. Eamonn Morgan, contracts manager at Mamo Building Services, described the scene as "bleak," estimating the damage to stock, equipment, vehicles, and the premises itself to be in excess of £1 million. Some vintage tractors stored nearby were also reportedly devastated.
Impact on Business and Community
Mamo Building Services is a long-established, family-run business operating in the building supply and construction sector. It employs approximately 150 people and holds a 24/7 contract with the Housing Executive. Mr. Morgan indicated that it could take months to recover and resume full operations, emphasizing the need to continue providing essential services from Monday morning.
SDLP councillor Thomas O’Hanlon described the incident as "devastating" and highlighted that the impact would be felt "far beyond the immediate site." He acknowledged the professionalism of the emergency services and noted that the family and their business are highly respected locally, playing an important role in both private and public sectors.
Ongoing Investigation
While firefighters extinguished the blaze by Saturday evening, the PSNI has confirmed it is investigating the circumstances surrounding the fire. Chief Inspector John Keers appealed to the public for any information that could assist their inquiries. Residents in the vicinity were advised to keep windows and doors closed due to smoke.
