Historic Hilden Mill in Lisburn engulfed in flames, fire services rush to the scene

A fire at the abandoned Hilden Mill in Lisburn has reignited concerns over the future of the historic building, which was previously damaged in an arson attack. Local representatives are calling for urgent restoration work to preserve the iconic structure.

Firefighters Respond to Blaze at Hilden Mill in Lisburn

A fire broke out at the historic Hilden Mill in Lisburn, Co Antrim, around 6:30 PM on Tuesday. Emergency services responded promptly, with four fire pumps and an aerial appliance dispatched to the scene. Firefighters continued their efforts well into the evening.

The Hilden Mill, known for housing the Barbour Thread Factory, has been abandoned since 2006 and was sold to an English developer in 2017. The building had previously suffered damage from an arson attack in 2021.

Local representatives expressed their concerns over the recurring fires. Lagan Valley MLA Robbie Butler and councillors Gary Hynds and Jonathan Craig emphasized the historical significance of the mill and the impact of the damage on the community.

Butler highlighted the potential loss of an iconic building, while Hynds and Craig called attention to the mill's deteriorating state and the urgent need for restoration work.