Major Fire Devastates Corries Meats Site in County Down
A major fire broke out on Saturday evening at the site of Corries Meats, a popular meat producer near Newtownards in County Down, with 54 firefighters and eight fire engines battling the blaze through the night before bringing it under control on Sunday morning.
Key Developments
The fire was reported at approximately 7:15pm on Saturday 11 April 2026 at the Corries Meats site on Crossnamuckley Road near Newtownards. The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) dispatched a large-scale response, including eight fire engines, an aerial appliance, and a water tanker, with 54 firefighters tackling the blaze throughout the night. The fire engulfed sheds on the farm property.
The blaze was brought under control by around 8:00am on Sunday morning. NIFRS confirmed that investigators had been dispatched to the site to determine the cause of the fire. The Corrie family released a statement confirming the incident and expressing relief that all individuals were safe and accounted for, despite the "devastation caused." They extended their thanks to the emergency services. It was understood that no animals were harmed in the fire.
DUP leader Gavin Robinson described the news as "devastating" and noted that windy conditions had made the situation "incredibly difficult" for firefighters throughout the night.
Background
Corries Meats is a well-known local meat producer in County Down, serving customers across Northern Ireland. The business is a significant local employer and a familiar name for shoppers across the region.
Why It Matters
The fire represents a significant blow to a local business and the community it serves. The cause of the blaze remains under investigation, and the full extent of the damage to the site and the business's operations is not yet known. The Corrie family's statement confirmed that all people were safe, which will be a relief to the local community.
Source: The Irish News
