The fire broke out in the early hours of this morning (8 March) and NIFRS (Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service) are currently still at the scene attempting to get the blaze under control. Both Regent Street and High Street are closed.

Cllr Moore, who was at the scene this morning, has said: “Newtownards is a tight-knit local community, and I unreservedly share the shock and concern many will also be feeling this morning.

“I want to give my sincere thanks and well-wishes to the NIFRS and emergency service workers for the speed and skill in their response to the blaze as they continue to work to get the situation under control. It is inevitably due to their hard work that the damage so far hasn’t been worse or more extensive, and that thankfully nobody’s been hurt.

“The businesses in Conway Square are such an important part of the identity of the town, for both residents and visitors, who I have no doubt will be very keen to show support in any way they can going forward.

“In the meantime, I’ll continue to liaise with police throughout the day as more information becomes available, and I’d encourage anyone affected by road closures to keep an eye on the PSNI website and social media channels for further updates.”