PSNI appeal for information after suspected arson attack destroys ex-convent - MLA describes attack as 'upsetting'

SDLP South Down MLA Colin McGrath said it was "really sad" to see the former convent on fire and that many people in the area had memories of its role over the years.

Some 70 firefighters and over a dozen fire appliances battled the fire overnight from Sunday evening into Monday morning to bring it under control.

The PSNI said they received a report of a large fire at the Stream Street area just after 7.10pm on Sunday, 28 June.

Police attended to assist firefighters with traffic management until the blaze was extinguished in the early hours.

Police added: "Fire Service have stated that ignition may have been deliberate and as such a scene is being held this morning, Monday 29 June, to allow for further investigation."

A Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) spokesperson said said that when they arrived they were met with "a well-developed fire involving a building".

Firefighter used breathing apparatus, firefighting jets and two aerial ladder jets to put the fire out.

An NIFRS spokesman said: “Our Firefighters worked tirelessly throughout the duration of the incident to ensure that the fire was brought under control and extinguished.

“We would like to thank the public for their patience whilst we dealt with the incident."

NIFRS said the cause of the fire is believed to have been "deliberate ignition".

At the height of the incident 70 firefighters were involved, brought to the scene by 10 fire appliances from Newcastle, Dromore, Ballynahinch, Comber, Carryduff, Banbridge, Newtownards, and Rathfriland stations.

Two aerial ladder appliances from Knock and Springfield Station, a Command Support Unit from Lisburn Station and a water tanker from Warrenpoint Station were also used.

The incident was dealt with by 10.03am on Monday.

SDLP South Down MLA Colin McGrath said it was "really sad" to see the former convent on fire.

"Although it’s been lying derelict for some time, it’s still one of those buildings that people in the town know well, and it’s difficult to watch it being lost like this," he said.

"Many local people will have memories of the convent and the role it played over the years. Even in recent times it has remained a familiar part of the Downpatrick skyline, so seeing it go up in flames is upsetting.

"I want to pay tribute to the firefighters and all of the emergency services who have responded so quickly to what is clearly a significant incident. Their professionalism and bravery in dealing with situations like this should never be taken for granted.

"My thoughts are also with those living and working nearby who will understandably have been concerned as the fire developed."

In a statement, Downpatrick Family Of Parishes said they were "relieved" that the fire which was prevented from reaching St Patrick’s Church "by the heroism and skill of the Northern Ireland Fire Service"

They added: "Fire fighters worked through the night to protect St Patrick’s and to them we owe an enormous debt of gratitude."

Police have asked anyone with information to contact https://reporting.psni.police.uk/appeals - quoting ref 1509-28/06/26 or on tel 101.

Alternatively, the public can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111