Investigation launched into huge fire - The Leamington Observer

Investigation launched into huge fire

Leamington Editorial 21st Jun, 2018   0

AN INVESTIGATION has been launched into the cause of a huge fire which sent black smoke billowing across the skies of Coventry and Warwickshire.

The massive blaze started mid-morning Friday at Whites scrapyard on London Road near Ryton-on-Dunsmore, close to Tollbar Island and Coventry Airport, which had to close at one point as the smoke was so dense, although traffic was kept moving on the busy A45 and A46.

The fire, with flames up to eight metres high, could be seen from miles around.

More than 70 firefighters were sent from stations across Coventry and Warwickshire, along with Warwickshire Fire & Rescue’s Environmental Protection Unit. Crews remained on site until Sunday.




Our photographer Jon Mullis was among the first at the scene shortly after 10am, and heard loud bangs from the site.

Police were directing traffic on the A45 where problems were created by drivers parking up or slowing down to take photos, many of which soon appeared on social media.


Warwickshire Fire & Rescue advised nearby residents to avoid the area and keep their windows and doors closed.

The Environment Agency Midlands also confirmed it would be monitoring the environmental impact.

Warwickshire County Council’s acting Community Protection spokesman Coun Andy Crump said: “This was a significant incident that could have presented a serious problem. However, our crews and those of neighbouring services tackled the blaze and limited the damage, ensuring no members of the community were put at risk.

“The potential for disruption was limited and Warwickshire’s roads were kept moving.”

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