Public urged to avoid area after fire breaks out at Enniskillen derelict hotel

A fire at a derelict hotel on the main road through Enniskillen may have been deliberate, the fire service has said.

Emergency services attended the scene at around 5am and a large-scale operation swung into operation.

Around 40 firefighters were on the scene at the fire's height. The road had to be closed causing delays on the morning rush.

A number of business have been forced to close and there are real concerns the building is at risk of collapse.

There has been a history of fire at the building, the Fire Service said. While on Wednesday morning it had been brought under control, there were still pockets of fire in the building.

Group Commander Michael Curran said firefighters would remain at the scene for a number of hours. He thanked the public for their patience.

"At the minute the cause is undetermined. However, indicators would suggest it is most likely deliberate. We will work in partnership with the PSNI to establish the cause."

He said the structuarlly unsound nature of the building and its location made it difficult for firefighters.

Emergency services have urged the public to avoid the area and seek alternative routes for their journey.

Police say Forthill Street is likely to be closed for some time while emergency services deal with the blaze.

Catch up with the latest UTV Live on ITVX

Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know.