A police investigation has been launched after firebugs deliberately started a large blaze inside a derelict factory in Dumfries.
Emergency services were called to the old Gates Factory on Edinburgh Road shortly before 10pm on Monday, June 7.
Fierce flames had spread over two floors leaving the interior charred black and smoke damaged despite hero firefighters extinguishing the blaze.
An entrance to the abandoned building was also badly torched.
The A701 north and south carriageway, at the Locharbriggs junction, was temporarily closed while first responders dealt with the incident.
There have been no reported injuries.
Officers are keen to speak to anyone who may have been in the area at the time or who may have dash cam footage in a bid to catch the culprits.
A force spokesperson said: “Police in Dumfries are investigating a fire at the old Gates Factory, Edinburgh Road, Dumfries.
“About 9.50pm on 7 June 2021, The Scottish Fire & Rescue Service were alerted to an ongoing fire at the factory. Fortunately no one was injured.
“A number of enquiries are being carried out, however we are looking for anyone who was passing the area around the time and saw anything or for anyone who was driving past and has dashcam footage to contact the Police.
“We would also like to take this opportunity to remind people of the dangers of entering/hanging about abandoned or disused buildings.
A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson added: “We were alerted at 9.49pm on Monday, June 7 to reports of a building on fire at Edinburgh Road, Dumfries.
“Operations Control mobilised three appliances and firefighters extinguished a fire affecting a derelict building.
“There were no reported casualties and crews left after ensuring the area was made safe.”
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