Melbourne factory fire: Police treating CBD blaze as suspicious

Victorian Police were treating a fire that ripped through two factories in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD on Thursday as suspicious.

The fire, on Clarendon Street between Crown Casino and the CityLink in Southbank, started in one factory before flames quickly spread to a neighbouring site.

Traffic and trams were diverted along the busy road, while guests in nearby hotel rooms were asked to close windows as heavy smoke climbed into the air.

A group of 35 firefighters, some with breathing equipment, tackled the blaze for around 50 minutes.

“There were no reported occupants however Fire Rescue Victoria will do a thorough search when able,” a Fire Rescue Victoria spokesperson said.

FRV urged residents in Albert Park, Docklands, Melbourne, Port Melbourne, South Melbourne, South Wharf and Southbank to be on alert.

“There is currently no threat to the community, but you should continue to stay informed and monitor conditions,” the spokesperson said.

“Those in high-rise apartments in the area should close doors and windows to prevent smoke from entering their premises.”