Second major fire erupts at former Port Hope file factory

Port Hope firefighters responded to a significant fire at the former Nicholson file factory on Cavan Street early Tuesday, June 16. This marks the second major blaze at the vacant industrial site in under two years.

Crews were called to the scene around 4:55 a.m. after reports of a fire inside the derelict warehouse. Fire Chief Jason Williams stated that firefighters engaged in defensive operations from the exterior due to the developing nature of the fire. The Cobourg Fire Department assisted with heavy equipment to extinguish hotspots.

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crews were called to the vacant warehouse property on Cavan Street for reports of a fire.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported in connection with the incident. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. A large fire in July 2024 caused substantial damage to the south side of the same building.

The Nicholson file factory has been vacant since the mid-1990s. The property, which includes a large brick building dating back to the late 19th century, has plans for redevelopment into upscale condominiums on a portion of the site.

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crews discovered a developing fire inside the building and began defensive operations from the outside