Emergency crews remain at the scene in West Bromwich after a large tyre fire led to the evacuation of local residents and caused structural damage to multiple factory units on Great Bridge Street.
The incident, which began at around 10.40am on Sunday, involved around 20 tonnes of burning tyres and spread across four single-storey industrial units. The West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) confirmed the blaze required the deployment of 15 fire engines and specialist equipment, including aerial ladder platforms and a high-volume water pump drawing from a nearby canal.
Several homes on neighbouring Elwell Street were evacuated as a precaution, with West Midlands Police co-ordinating the effort. WMFS confirmed no injuries had been reported, and said that most residents were expected to return to their homes by Sunday evening. Despite this, the public was still urged to keep windows and doors closed due to the scale of smoke in the area.
A structural engineer was deployed to assess damage following a partial building collapse at the site. Meanwhile, utility engineers from National Grid and other agencies worked to isolate gas and electricity supplies as required.
WMFS is leading the fire investigation, but stated that further analysis will take place once conditions on site are deemed safe. Representatives from the Environment Agency, Severn Trent, Sandwell Council and other partners have supported the response.
While preliminary investigations have begun, the cause of the fire remains unknown. Firefighters are expected to remain at the site for some time due to the complex nature of the incident and the need for continued safety assessments.
Tagged with:
West Midlands Fire Service, tyre fire, factory blaze, evacuation, West Bromwich, fire safety, industrial fire
Disclaimer: This content may include forward-looking statements. Views expressed are not verified or endorsed by Tyre News Media.
Sign up for our weekly briefing on key developments across the sector.
