A significant fire broke out at a recycling centre in Bermondsey, south-east London, on Tuesday morning, causing widespread travel disruption and prompting an emergency response. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) was called to the scene on the Old Kent Road just before 7am, with 10 fire engines and around 70 firefighters deployed to tackle the blaze.
Fire Details and Response
The fire is believed to have started in a large pile of recycling materials, including plastics and paper, which quickly spread across the site. Thick black smoke could be seen billowing into the sky from miles away, leading to health warnings for local residents. The LFB advised people in the area to keep their windows and doors closed due to the potentially harmful smoke.
Fire crews from stations across London, including Bermondsey, Peckham, and New Cross, worked to contain the flames. The cause of the fire is not yet known, and an investigation is expected to begin once the blaze is fully extinguished. There have been no reported injuries, and the fire is not believed to be suspicious at this stage.
Travel Disruption
The fire has caused significant disruption to travel in the area. The Old Kent Road, a major route into central London, has been closed in both directions between the Bricklayers Arms roundabout and the Asda supermarket. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes.
Train services have also been affected. Southeastern and Thameslink trains running between London Bridge and other stations have experienced delays and cancellations. The smoke from the fire has drifted over the railway lines, forcing trains to reduce speed for safety reasons. Commuters are advised to check before traveling and allow extra time for their journeys.
London Buses are also being diverted, with several routes affected. Transport for London (TfL) has warned that delays are likely to continue throughout the morning rush hour and possibly into the afternoon.
Health Advice for Residents
The LFB has issued a health warning for people living or working near the fire. Residents are advised to keep windows and doors closed, and anyone with respiratory conditions should consider staying indoors. The smoke contains particulate matter that can be harmful if inhaled, particularly for vulnerable individuals such as the elderly, children, and those with asthma or other lung conditions.
Local authorities are monitoring air quality in the area and have set up a helpline for those affected. People are also advised to avoid the immediate vicinity of the fire to allow emergency services to work safely.
Impact on Businesses and Schools
Several businesses near the recycling centre have been evacuated as a precaution, and some have remained closed for the day. A number of schools in the area have also been affected, with some choosing to keep children indoors during break times. Parents are being urged to check with their child's school for updates.
The fire comes at a time when recycling centres across London are already under pressure due to increased waste volumes. The incident is likely to raise questions about fire safety at such facilities, particularly given the flammable nature of the materials stored on site.
Ongoing Situation
Firefighters are expected to remain at the scene for several hours, damping down hotspots and ensuring the fire does not reignite. The LFB has urged people to continue to avoid the area and to follow advice from emergency services.
Local MP Neil Coyle has said he is in contact with the LFB and Southwark Council to monitor the situation. He urged residents to stay safe and to check on vulnerable neighbors if possible.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. For now, travelers should plan alternative routes, and residents should take precautions to protect their health.
