Huge blaze breaks out at Marchwood recycling centre – fire crews battle for hours
Massive Fire Erupts at Marchwood Recycling Plant
Emergency services scrambled this lunchtime after a fierce fire broke out at the recycling centre on East Road, Marchwood. Firefighters from across Hampshire, including far-flung Portsmouth, rushed to the scene to tackle the inferno consuming 140 tons of recycled waste.
Eight Fire Engines and Aerial Ladders Called In
The operation is huge. Eight fire engines, two aerial ladders, and the incident command unit from Eastleigh were deployed. Crews are using massive yellow pipes to pump 16,000 litres of seawater onto the blaze. Firefighters smashed windows to create entry points and douse the flames from inside the massive single-storey building.
Hampshire Fire and Rescue Spokesman Speaks Out
A Hampshire Fire and Rescue spokesman revealed: “We received several calls about heavy smoke and fire. We sent two engines from Hythe and one from Redbridge initially but quickly scaled up to eight.” Crews also arrived from Eastleigh, Southampton, Redbridge, Hightown, Fareham, Basingstoke, Beaulieu, and Southsea.
The building measured a vast 75m by 25m, with the fire centred in the northeast corner holding domestic waste. Over half the building is destroyed by flames, with the rest suffering severe smoke and heat damage.
Firefighters Gear Up for Long Haul Battle
Up to 14 firefighters, kitted out with breathing apparatus and hoses, are combing through smouldering debris. Pumping seawater continuously, they warn: “We are likely to remain here for some time.”
