BREAKING! Crews Battling Large Fire At Newcastle West Rug Store

BY IAN CROUCH

More than 40 firefighters are battling a large building fire in Newcastle West.

Crews were called to Rahmani's Rug Gallery on Parry Street just before 11.30pm on Monday to find smoke issuing from the two story brick building.

Two aerial appliances have been deployed to fight the fire from above.

Parry Street is closed to traffic between Stewart and Tudor Streets and is likely to remain closed for several hours.

Although the fire has been contained and is not posing a threat to neighbouring properties, Senior Firefighter James Reid says there are concerns the front of the building could collapse into the street.

"The building suffered significant fire damage and some potential structural damage. Crews have established a collapse zone on Parry Street," he said.

Police have establish a crime scene and forensic investigators will start work as soon as the fire is fully extinguished and it's safe to do so.

Fire rips through the Rahmani's Rug Gallery in Parry Street Picture: Merewether Fire & Rescue

Firefighters tackle the flames at Rahmani's Rug Gallery in Parry Street Picture: FRNSW Media

Fire Destroys The Edwards Bar In Newcastle West

BY IAN CROUCH

Fire has destroyed a popular bar and eatery in Newcastle West.

Firefighters from across the city were called to The Edwards on Parry Street just after midnight to find the building well alight with flames through the roof.

Staff had only just closed up for the night about half an hour before the fire started.

Around 30 firefighters and two aerial appliances were called to the fire - crews initially tried to attack the blaze internally but had to withdraw when the roof collapsed.

Newcastle Fire Command says 70 percent of the building was damaged by fire, the rest of the structure was damaged by heat, smoke and water

An adjoining laundromat also sustained minor fire damage.

Fire investigators will arrive this morning to pinpoint the cause of the blaze, which is believed to have started in the kitchen.

The Edwards has only been open for four years and is owned by Silverchair bassist, Chris Joannou and his business partner, Chris Johnston.

The Edwards Bar Ablaze in Newcastle West Picture: theherald.com.au