FIREFIGHTERS were called to the former Dressers store in Darlington's High Row on Saturday afternoon, following reports of a fire.
The two-storey property is empty while demolition work takes place inside, in preparation for the next tenant.
A spark is thought to have caused a fire in a roof void, which was extinguished by firefighters using hose reels.
They had to break into the building to gain entry.
A spokesman for the fire and rescue service said they had spent about half an hour at the scene. The fire was not being treated as suspicious, he said.
Dressers closed in April following 150 years of trading in Darlington. A number of high street stores including WH Smith and Gap have been linked with the site.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article