A fire at the former Convent of Mercy in Downpatrick is believed to have been deliberately set, according to the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service. Firefighters responded to the incident on Sunday evening, deploying 70 personnel and multiple fire appliances to control the blaze, which caused significant damage to the building's roof.
The fire service is scaling back operations but will maintain a presence at the site for several hours. Local officials expressed concern over the loss of a historical landmark, urging the community to stay clear of the area as investigations continue.
The deliberate nature of the fire raises concerns about safety and security in the community. As investigations proceed, the incident may prompt discussions on the preservation of historical sites and the need for enhanced protection measures against vandalism or arson.