Bank Building fire confirmed as accidental

by Q Radio News

The NIFRS has completed an "extensive investigation" to determine the cause of the fire at Bank Buildings in Belfast last year and has confirmed it was accidental. 

A spokesperson for the NIFRS said, "The HSENI has received our Fire Investigation Report. 

"As this forms part of their wider investigation it is not appropriate for NIFRS to be more specific about the actual cause of the accidental fire while this investigation is ongoing.

“Given the extensive damage caused by the fire, the fire investigation process was complex, detailed and protracted. 

"We would like to thank our Fire Investigation Team in Eastern Area Command for their diligence and tireless work in this investigation.  

"We would also like to thank our partner agencies for their co-operation and assistance.”  

Meanwhile, a Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) spokesperson said: 

“HSENI has received the NIFRS investigation report and this will be considered as part of ongoing enquiries. 

"HSENI is unable to comment any further at this time.”