Runners and spectators heading to the Swansea Half Marathon on Sunday faced disruption after a kitchen fire broke out in the city centre, prompting a road closure. Despite initial fears that the event, which attracts over 8,000 participants, might be delayed, organisers managed to start the race on time at 9am.
Fire Incident Details
A spokesperson for South Wales Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that crews were called to a kitchen fire on the sixth floor of a building on New Cut Road at 7.21am. The fire is believed to have been accidental. All occupants were accounted for, and no injuries were reported. The fire was extinguished by 8.40am.
Road Closures and Traffic Impact
Emergency services closed New Cut Road during the incident. Swansea Council reported at around 9.20am that the road had reopened, but congestion remained in the area. Traffic in Swansea city centre has since eased, though delays were expected throughout the day due to organised road closures for the half marathon.
Thousands of runners took to the streets for the 12th edition of the Swansea Half Marathon, one of Wales' largest road races, offering scenic views of Swansea Bay. The family fun run also proceeded as planned earlier in the morning.
Organisers initially warned of a possible delay to the start time via social media, citing the incident in the city centre. However, the race commenced on schedule at 9am.
