Huge factory fire breaks out with smoke plume visible 15 miles away

A factory is on fire in Birmingham with the huge plume of smoke visible 15 miles away.

The massive fire at the Fort Dunlop building off the M6 motorway, not far from an Esso petrol and diesel terminal, was first reported at around 4pm.

More than 80 firefighters raced to the scene with multiple crews battling the blaze on Hastingwood Industrial Park.

Eyewitnesses said they could see the massive smoke plume in Solihull, around 15 miles away.

West Midlands Fire Service said: ‘Multiple crews are currently in attendance at a fire on Hastingwood Industrial Park, Wood Lane, Erdington.

‘Avoid the area and close your doors and windows if you’re affected by smoke.

‘This is a significant incident. Plan your journeys accordingly.’

The industrial park is not far from a shopping centre, with pictures showing the thick black smoke rising above branches of Costa Coffee and B&M.

The spokesperson added: ‘This is a fire in a factory, which is not currently affecting The Fort shopping centre which is nearby.

‘The fire is contained to the site, where sports equipment is produced. Everyone has been accounted for.’

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.’

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