A major incident has been declared following a large fire at a recycling centre in Avonmouth, Bristol. Avon Fire and Rescue Service was called to the blaze on Kings Weston Lane at approximately 1:30am on Wednesday, July 15. Firefighters remain at the scene, working to bring the fire under control.
Evacuation and Safety Measures
All personnel at the recycling centre were safely evacuated, and there have been no reported injuries, according to Bristol Live. The fire service urged residents and workers nearby to keep windows and doors closed and stay indoors where possible due to a large plume of smoke drifting south.
In a statement at 7am, Avon Fire and Rescue Service said: "We remain at the scene of a significant fire at a recycling centre on Kings Weston Lane in Avonmouth. Crews are continuing to work to bring the fire under control and emergency services remain in attendance. All personnel at the site were safely evacuated and there are currently no reported injuries. If you live or work nearby, please continue to keep windows and doors closed and stay indoors where possible to stop smoke from entering your property."
Road Closures and Traffic Disruption
Kings Weston Lane remains closed between the A403 St Andrews Road and Long Cross. The fire service advised: "Please avoid the area and expect disruption. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available."
Avon and Somerset Police also closed a section of Kings Weston Lane. A police spokesperson said: "Kings Weston Lane is currently closed between the A403 St Andrews Road and Long Cross due to the ongoing fire in Merebank Road, Avonmouth. Drivers please seek alternative routes and avoid the area if at all possible."
Traffic monitoring service Inrix reported that Kings Weston Lane is closed in both directions between the A403 St Andrew's Road and Long Cross because of the fire. Despite the closure, traffic in the area is said to be coping well.
Ongoing Response
Emergency services remain at the scene, and further updates are expected as firefighters continue tackling the blaze. The fire service declared a major incident earlier as the blaze intensified, warning that a large smoke plume was drifting southwards.
