Major ongoing incident as 300 tonnes of scrap metal ablaze in Global Ardour Recycling Preston site fire
The situation is still ongoing.
Firefighters are tackling a major blaze involving around 300 tonnes of scrap metal at a recycling site in Preston, with the incident expected to continue well into the weekend and possibly into early next week.
Eight fire engines remain at the scene at Global Ardour Recycling Limited on Longridge Road after Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service was called to the fire at around 1.30am.
Group Manager and Incident Commander Ian Armistead said firefighters arrived to find approximately 300 tonnes of scrap metal on fire.
Fire crews, working alongside onsite staff, have spent the night containing the blaze and preventing it from spreading beyond the site. However, a significant plume of smoke is continuing to rise from the incident and is expected to remain visible for some time.
Residents are being urged to avoid the area to allow emergency services to work safely while firefighting operations continue.
Anyone who can see or smell smoke is advised to keep their windows and doors closed.
Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service thanked the public for their patience as crews continue to deal with what is expected to be a prolonged incident.