Nottingham fire: Gas explosions ‘heard across city’ after cattle market blaze

Residents warned to keep windows closed and stay away from area of large fire

A large fire at a former cattle market has caused explosions that may have been heard across Nottingham, firefighters have said.

More than a dozen fire crews from across three counties are tackling the blaze, which broke out in Meadow Lane, Nottingham just before 7pm on Sunday.

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue service said four buildings had been affected by the fire, while a number of compressed gas cylinders at the site had exploded.

“We have had several small explosions, which some members of the community may have heard across Nottingham,” the brigade’s incident commander, Bryn Coleman, said.

“The crews are working extremely hard now to prevent the fire spreading to some further industrial units on Clark Road in the city.

“It is anticipated crews are likely to be here for a considerable time and we are being supported by our colleagues from East Midlands Ambulance Service and Nottinghamshire Police.

“At this time, we would advise all local residents to keep doors and windows closed, particularly over the city conurbation due to the smoke travel and spread of the incident.”

Fire crews were able to bring the blaze under control by around 11.15pm, but are expected to remain at the scene throughout the night.

Notts Country Football Club’s Meadow Lane ground is located close to the area in which the fire broke out.

The club’s chairman and owner, Alan Hardy, tweeted: “We are aware of a significant fire at the Cattle Market, near Meadow Lane, and reiterate the authorities' advice to avoid the area due to potential explosions. Please stay away and safe guys please.”

An investigation into the cause of the incident will be launched on Monday.