The full impact of the overnight blaze (inset) becomes clear in the morning light. Picture: KIM EISZELE
POLICE believe a $10 million fire in Hobart's CBD early this morning was deliberately lit.
Fire crews were called to Bridges Brothers, between Elizabeth and Argyle streets, about 3.15am today.
The fierce blaze in the 1928 building, which also houses several other smaller businesses, took about four hours to bring under control.
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Tasmania Fire Service district officer Mark Dobson said units from Hobart, Bridgewater, Clarence and a volunteer crew from Mt Nelson tackled the blaze.
"The whole building's gutted. It's been destroyed," Mr Dobson said.
"A building of that size could be up to $10 million."
Graham Woodward, who has owned the building since 1988, said it was going to be a huge clean-up job.
Structural engineers would assess whether the façade could be retained, but the interior was completed gutted.
"It's very sad because it's quite an attractive building at the front," he said.
"I've been associated with it for 50 years and owned it since 1988.
"It's more of a concern about the tenants and where they can relocate to.
"It leaves a big hole in the block."
Police said the cause of the fire was considered suspicious.
Hobart detectives and the TFS fire scene examiner were at the scene today to search for clues.
Bathurst St between Elizabeth and Argyle streets will remain closed to vehicular and foot traffic until further notice.
Business owners in the affected area are encouraged to contact TFS for further information.
Residents of the inner-city area are advised to remain indoors with doors and windows shut because of residual smoke and those who suffer from breathing difficulties should avoid the city for the next few hours.
Hobart has not witnessed a fire of such ferocity since a fire ripped through Myer in 2007, causing about $50 million damage.
Any person with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Read more in tomorrow's Sunday Tasmanian.
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