COMMUTERS have been warned to stay away from the scene of a huge inferno on Monday as the closure of a freeway on-ramp threatens to cause peak hour traffic chaos.

More than 60 firefighters battled the huge blaze near Melbourne’s famous Nylex clock from 12am with local residents urged to stay inside.

Residents told the Herald Sun that they heard loud bangs before fire took hold of an abandoned factory, sending flames leaping into the air.

Anne, who lives opposite the site, said she heard explosions.



“There were loud bangs and then I could smell the smoke,” she said. “I saw massive flames leaping up, I thought ‘here we go again.’

“I think it’s deliberate, I don’t think these fires are random.”

Last night’s blaze was not the first at the site, but police say squatters were likely to blame for previous fires.

Detective Senior Constable Nick Dugga said police were awaiting an arson chemist to analyse the crime scene.

“We’re waiting until the building is safe until the arson chemist can make a determination on the cause and origin of the fire,” he said.

“There is some concern of asbestos, which is delaying us getting in there.

“There have been a number of smaller fires in the past believed to have been the result of squatters inside the building.”

Metropolitan Fire Brigade spokesman Ian Morris said firefighters arrived on the scene in less than six minutes and used aerial appliances to reduce the suspicious blaze.

The fire was declared under control at 2:05am.

The Nylex Clock sign was illuminated by the flames.

Caydon Property Group are the owners and developers of the Nylex clock site.

Caydon principal Joe Russo said the developer will work with authorities to investigate the cause of the fire.

“Caydon has a number of security measures in place to prevent unlawful entry at the site, including perimeter fencing, hazardous material warning signage, locks on all external gates and doors, and 24/7 security patrols,” he said.

“The scale, configuration and heritage restrictions of this unique site presents numerous challenges, and it is impossible to completely prevent unwanted access from those determined to access the site.

“We regret any inconvenience the fire may cause residents and commuter traffic and are working with all authorities to make the site safe.”

CityLink spokeswoman Maria McCathy said the on-ramp from Punt Rd to CityLink eastbound (to the Monash Freeway) will be closed until further notice.

“Drivers are encouraged to seek an alternative route,” she said.

“Detours via Batman Ave or Yarra Blvd are recommended and drivers should allow extra time if they need to use this area.

“There will be increases in traffic on both Batman Avenue and Yarra Boulevard.

Cameron Tate from VicRoads said drives should “give the area a wide berth.”

“Drivers should steer clear of the area if they can.

“We’re awaiting Victoria Police to give us the green light to open it, we don’t know when it will be open yet.”

Anyone with information on the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Brianna.travers@news.com.au

@briannatravers