Gardai investigate after blaze at vacant site given planning permission for student accommodation in Limerick
Planning permission was recently granted for student accommodation at the historic Railway Hotel in Limerick, which was set ablaze on Thursday night
Gardaí have launched an investigation after a vacant historic building in Limerick that had just begun renovations was set alight.
Gardaí and emergency services, including members of Limerick Fire Service were rushed to the scene of the blaze at the Railway Hotel on Parnell Street in Limerick, directly across from Colbert Station, at around 10.30pm.
Thankfully, the fire crew brought the inferno under control and no injuries were reported following the suspected criminal damage incident. Footage shared on social media shows smoke and fire billowing out of a front window of the building, under the sold sign. On Friday multiple windows were seen to be broken and the wall black with smoke.
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Gardaí have also said they are aware of "misinformation, disinformation and rumour" regarding the blaze on Thursday evening, following reports the site was earmarked for refugees.
In March, a sold sign was erected on the property, which had stood vacant for a number of years in the city, although it was not revealed who purchased the site.
In June, Limerick Council granted planning permission for the hotel, which is over 150 years old, to build more than 100 student accommodation beds over multiple apartments in what would be a major boost for the city.
A Garda spokesperson told the Irish Mirror: "Gardaí are investigating a criminal damage incident which occurred at a vacant premises on Parnell St in Limerick on Thursday night, 18 July 2024.
"The fire was brought under control by fire services. No injuries have been reported. An Garda Síochána is aware of misinformation, disinformation and rumour in relation to the use or proposed use of the building.
"In general, it is a matter for IPAS to comment on whether specific locations may or may not be planned to be used for IPAS accommodation."
The Irish Mirror has contacted the Department of Integration for comment.
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