In the early hours of Sunday, June 15, 2025, a startling incident unfolded at White's Tavern, a beloved bar nestled in Belfast's historic Winecellar Entry. Part of the bar's ceiling collapsed, with plasterboard falling into the bustling bar area, prompting a swift emergency response and temporary closure of the venue.
The incident occurred shortly after midnight, with emergency services including the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS), and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) arriving promptly at the scene. Police confirmed they attended the report of a collapsed roof at approximately 12:10 AM, while ambulance crews were dispatched following a 999 call received at 12:03 AM.
NIAS deployed five emergency crews alongside a Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) and several ambulance officers to assess and manage the situation. After initial treatment on-site, one individual was transported to the Royal Victoria Hospital for further care, while several others received minor treatment and were discharged at the scene. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported, a relief to both patrons and staff alike.
A spokesperson for the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service described the incident as a partial collapse, stating that part of the roof "came off the ground floor ceiling." However, they emphasized that no active intervention was necessary, with only advice provided to those present. This assessment aligned with the findings of an internal investigation commissioned by White's Tavern management.
In a statement shared across social media platforms, White's Tavern expressed sincere apologies to customers and staff affected by the event. The statement reassured the public that safety remains the utmost priority: "The safety of our customers and staff at White's Complex is our top priority. Following an incident in White's Tavern, which saw plasterboard fall in the bar, we immediately sealed off the affected area and liaised with emergency services."
Further investigations confirmed there were no underlying structural defects contributing to the collapse. Remediation works have already commenced to ensure the venue's safety and prevent any future incidents. The management confirmed that White's Tavern would reopen on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, while its adjoining venues—White's Garden, White's Beer Hall, and White's Store—remained open and unaffected throughout the ordeal.
Eyewitness accounts from patrons who had just left the bar described the atmosphere as "pretty busy" at the time of the collapse, highlighting the potential risk had the incident occurred during peak hours. The rapid evacuation and emergency response undoubtedly prevented a more serious outcome.
The PSNI spokesperson reiterated the timeline and collaborative efforts of emergency services: "Police attended a report of a collapsed roof at premises in the Winecellar Entry area of Belfast city centre shortly before 12.10am on Sunday, June 15. Colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Services and the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service also attended the scene. There were no reports of any serious injuries."
This incident has prompted a thorough review of safety protocols at White's Complex, reflecting the venue's commitment to customer and staff welfare. The temporary closure, while disruptive, was a necessary precaution to safeguard everyone involved.
White's Tavern has a long-standing reputation as a popular social hub in Belfast city centre, making this event particularly significant for the local community. Its swift response and transparent communication have been met with understanding and support from patrons and officials alike.
As remediation works progress, authorities and management remain vigilant to ensure the historic site continues to operate safely. The reopening planned for June 17 is eagerly anticipated, signaling a return to normalcy for one of Belfast's cherished nightlife destinations.
While the cause of the plasterboard collapse appears isolated and unrelated to structural integrity, this event serves as a reminder of the importance of rigorous maintenance and safety checks in older buildings, especially those hosting large numbers of people.
In the meantime, visitors can still enjoy the adjoining venues within White's Complex, which continue to operate without interruption. The incident, though unsettling, has been managed with professionalism and care, underscoring the resilience of Belfast's vibrant city centre community.
