Massive Fire Rips Through Southampton Recycling Centre
A huge blaze tore through a recycling centre on Millbank Street, Southampton, late last night, blanketing the city in thick smoke and sparking a major emergency response.
Emergency Crews Battle Overnight Inferno
The fire broke out around 10:30pm, devouring the commercial property and filling nearby areas with a strong burning smell. Locals on Bond Street were among those affected by the smoky haze and hazardous conditions.
Seven fire engines and two aerial ladder platforms rushed to the scene. Firefighters from across the region—including teams from St Mary’s, Hightown, Redbridge, Eastleigh, Portchester, Fareham, Alton, and Basingstoke—worked through the night to tame the flames.
Residents reported towering clouds of smoke hanging over the city as crews used claw cranes to sift through burnt rubble, continuing their hard graft well into the early hours.
Fire Under Control but Investigation Continues
By 2:00am, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue confirmed the blaze was under control.
“We will shortly be scaling down our presence onsite as the fire has been brought under control,” a spokesperson said. “Two fire engines will remain for damping down and dealing with any hotspots.”
No injuries have been reported so far, but firefighters remain cautious, securing the site and monitoring for any remaining dangers.
Cause Unknown, Police Appeal for Info
The cause of the inferno is still a mystery, with authorities expecting investigations to continue over the coming days.
Police are urging anyone with information about the fire to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.
