Firefighters tackle blaze at scrap metal recycling centre in Belfast

By Gráinne Ní Aodha, Press Association

A large fire has broken out at a scrap metal recycling centre in Belfast.

Around 60 firefighters are tackling the blaze in a “large quantity of scrap metal” at Clearway Metal Recycling in East Twin Road.

People have been urged to stay away from the area and nearby residents are being asked to keep their windows and doors closed.

“A total of nine pumping appliances, an aerial appliance, a high-volume pump and 60 firefighters are engaged in firefighting operations,” a spokesperson for the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) said.

“The fire is in a pile of scrap metal measuring approximately 50m x 50m.

“Crews are utilising a high-volume pump to convey water to the fire.

“There are no reported injuries and all persons are accounted for.

“Operations will continue for some time. Members of the public are encouraged to stay away from East Twin Road and keep windows and doors closed.”