Birmingham factory fire: Smoke billows from industrial estate as more than 100 firefighters battle blaze
The fire broke out near Fort Dunlop and The Fort shopping centre in Birmingham
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Massive plumes of smoke can be seen billowing from a fire at a factory in Birmingham.
More than 100 firefighters are at Hastingwood Industrial Park in Edington on Wednesday afternoon in what was described as a “significant incident”.
Authorities warned people to avoid the area if possible and to close their doors and windows if they live nearby.
The fire broke out in a factory near a shopping centre, with more resources “likely to be mobilised”.
“Shortly after 3.20pm on Thursday (17 July), we responded to Hastingwood Industrial Park, Wood Lane, Erdington,” a spokesperson for West Midlands Fire Service said.
“We currently have 12 fire engines, 3 4×4 brigade response vehicles and a hydraulic aerial platform at the scene. A fire engine from Tamworth Fire Station (Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service) is also in attendance. More resources are likely to be mobilised.
“This is a fire in a factory, which is not currently affecting The Fort shopping centre, which is nearby. Please avoid the area if possible, and close your doors and windows if you’re in an area affected by smoke.
“This is a significant incident. Commuters are urged to plan their journeys accordingly.”
The spokesperson added that further updates are to follow.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments