The derelict Tillie and Henderson building has been extensively damaged.

The Foyle Road, Abercorn Road and the top-deck of the Craigavon Bridge were closed as the fire service tried to stop the blaze spreading to nearby homes.

The alarm was raised shortly after 1900 GMT on Tuesday when flames were seen in the top floor and roof of the landmark building.

The premises have been regularly targeted by arsonists in the past, with a number of fires set there in the last few months.

One of the city's most recognisable buildings, the former shirt factory dominates the cityside end of the Craigavon Bridge at Carlisle Square.

The factory, which was built in 1856, is seen by many as a symbol of Derry's textile industry, which dominated employment in the city for almost 140 years.