A FIRE has broken out in Birmingham with large plumes of smoke visible from across the city.
Firefighters were called to Hastingwood Industrial Park in Wood Lane, Erdington, shortly after 3.20pm today as locals posted images of black smoke rising from behind the Fort Dunlop building.
West Midlands Fire ServiceSmoke is seen rising behind a Greggs and Five Guys in Birmingham. Fire chiefs said the businesses shown were unaffected[/caption]
West Midlands Fire ServiceBlack plumes of smoke seen rising from the factory fire[/caption]
Reports suggested that the blaze broke out close to the M6 in the Tyburn area and is visible from Solihull, Bromford, Perry Barr, and Birmingham Airport.
The West Midlands Fire Service said the fire was in a factory and is not affecting the nearby Fort shopping centre at the moment.
Fire chiefs also warned locals against opening their doors and windows.
They said in a statement: “Shortly after 3.20pm on Thursday (17 July), we responded to Hastingwood Industrial Park, Wood Lane, Erdington.
“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 urges to plan their journeys accordingly.
“Further updates will follow.”
The fire has caused gridlock in Birmingham with the main A38 at a standstill as emergency crews race to the scene.
One motorist said: “It’s been a lovely clear day in Birmingham but in a matter of moments the whole sky turned black with smoke.
“You can’t get anywhere and all you can hear are sirens from fire engines and police. It’s apocalyptic out there.”
Reports suggest the blaze broke out close to the M6 in the Tyburn area
One social media user said: “It’s one of the industrial units right next to the Costa. I was just having a coffee when they evacuated.
“We could see the flames leaping into the sky.
“Pretty terrifying to be honest.”
West Midlands Police said they were supporting fire colleagues with road closures.
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