Appeal to ‘close all windows’ after huge factory fire in Wolverhampton

More than 100 firefighters are tackling a massive blaze at the factory and nearby residents and workers have been warned to close their windows and doors amid concerns about air quality.

A fire broke out in a building near the junction of Sunbeam Street with Upper Villiers Street in Blakenhall, Wolverhampton, shortly after 07:30 GMT on Wednesday.

West Midlands Fire Service said the fire was causing significant disruption and could affect air quality in the area. People have been urged to avoid the area and crews are expected to remain at the scene overnight.

The fire service said 21 fire engines were at the scene by about 12:30 GMT, as thick black smoke billowed from the fire.

Ash was falling on cars and houses below, with a strong smell of smoke in the area.

Neighbours informed the BBC that they assumed the building served as a commercial space.

Crowds have gathered at Moore Street South and Lower Villiers Street, with police cordoning off Upper Villiers Street at both locations.

Authorities closed Upper Villiers Street and other nearby streets to pedestrians and cars and directed traffic to other streets.

The fire department described the fire as “significant,” saying the factory measured approximately 100 meters by 50 meters.

A spokesperson said, “While we work at the scene, we are expecting significant disruption in and around this site for the rest of today, this evening and overnight, so please plan any travel and adjust accordingly.”

Smoke from the fire could be seen across the town and a listener to BBC Radio WM reported that he could smell and taste the smoke while standing in the Mander Center car park, about a mile (1.6 km) from the fire.

“There is smoke billowing across Wolverhampton city centre; you can smell and taste it in the air,” said Steve, from Bushbury.

“There has actually been a huge fire burning since 07:30 this morning.”

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesperson said it was called to the fire just before 08:00 and their Hazardous Area Response Team was dispatched to the fire before withdrawing.

He said that there is no news of anyone being injured.

Reiterating its warning for people to stay away from the area, the fire service said it had increased its presence at the scene at around 11:00 GMT due to the severity of the fire.

A spokesperson said, “As a result, we want to remind everyone to stay away from the area at this time. If you live or work in the area, please keep your windows and doors closed.”