Massive blaze erupts at Kilwinning battery recycling plant for second time in a year

A major fire has broken out at the Fenix Battery Recycling in Kilwinning, Ayrshire. Emergency teams are rushing to deal with the blaze that began on Wednesday afternoon. This event took place almost a year after a similar fire at the same location.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) confirmed that six fire engines were deployed at the scene on Byrehill Place at 12.42 pm, stated reports. From miles out, it claimed, one could see heavy black smoke and flames. Meanwhile, dramatic video footage showed orange fireballs and plumes of smoke rising into the air.

According to The Sun report, residents living nearby, particularly in Stevenston and Irvine, said that they heard loud bangs like bombs going off. They also reported flying batteries which damaged cars and smashed windows.

Locals describe ‘war zone’ conditions

One of the residents, Laura Dobbie, aged 42, told The Sun that police informed the residents that people had been hit with flying batteries. She added that she hadn’t heard if they were hurt but it is terrifying. It's like living in a war zone, she continued.

According to various reports, video footage from the scene showed flaming projectiles being launched into the nearby neighbourhood. Emergency officials responded by advising citizens to remain indoors and to keep their doors and windows closed. Thankfully, there haven't been any reported injuries, but emergency crews are still on-site, monitoring the situation.

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Fire hits same site one year on

The recent Kilwinning incident is similar to a huge blaze which erupted on April 8, 2024. People had to leave their homes after an explosion happened at the same factory. Forty firemen battled the fire for four days at that time. Roads had to be shut down and thick smoke loomed in the air.

However, an Irvene Times report stated that this year’s fire sparked concerns over the safety measures in place at the recycling facility. Especially, considering its proximity to a new housing development, a school, and the local ambulance station.

The report quoted a spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council saying that they are continuing to assist emergency services on site. Meanwhile, Police Scotland also asked the public to steer clear of the area. They noted that access to West Byrehill Industrial Estate has been restricted for both drivers and pedestrians.

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FAQs

1. What caused the recycling factory in Kilwinning to catch fire?
   The reason for the fire is still unknown, however; it was at the Fenix Battery Recycling facility, which was the site of a similar incident last April.
   
   
   
2. Are there any injuries?
   So far, there have been no reports of injuries, although there are reports of residents being hit by flying batteries. Emergency services are still working to assess the incident.