NEARLY 20 properties had to be evacuated and road closures were put in place following a blaze at a block of flats in Falkirk.

Emergency services, including twelve fire engines and an incident command unit, were called to the scene on Mary Street in Laurieston shortly after 8pm on Saturday.

Police Scotland confirmed that 19 properties had to be evacuated as a result of the fire although there are no reported injuries at this stage.

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Mary Street between Boyd Street and Abbotsford Drive remains closed at this time and motorists have been advised to avoid the area.

A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: “At around 8pm on Saturday, March 9 2024, we were called to a report of a fire at a premises on Mary Street, Laurieston, Falkirk.

“Emergency services attended and officers assisted Scottish Fire and Rescue Service with traffic management.

“Nineteen properties were evacuated and there were no reported injuries. Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances, however the fire is not believed to be wilful.

“A road closure remains in place in both directions on Mary Street between Boyd Street and Abbotsford Drive. Motorists are advised to avoid the area.”