Fire crews are at the scene of a large blaze in the Belfast Harbour area on Sunday afternoon.
It’s understood to be at a scrap metal yard in the Titanic Quarter area.
Flames and large plumes of smoke could be seen coming from the site this lunchtime.
Over 60 firefighters are currently battling the major blaze. Nine fire appliances are currently in attendance at the Clearway industrial site on Queen’s Island including a turn table ladder.
A Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service Spokesperson said: “Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service are currently engaged in firefighting operations to extinguish a fire in a large quantity of scrap metal at Clearway Metal Recycling, East Twin Road, Belfast.
“A total of nine pumping appliances, an aerial appliance, high volume pump and 60 firefighters are engaged in firefighting operations.
“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.”
A spokesperson for Belfast Harbour Police said this afternoon: “We are working closely with PSNI, Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, and staff of Clearway Disposals following the outbreak of a fire at its scrap metal recycling facility in the Harbour Estate. Queen’s Road has been closed to traffic and pedestrians.
“We would advise local residents in the surrounding area to keep windows and doors closed as a precautionary measure and for people to avoid the area.”
A PSNI spokesperson added: “Road-users in east Belfast are advised to avoid the East Twin Road area due to an ongoing fire in the vicinity this afternoon. Please seek an alternative route for your journey.”
Posting on social media, local DUP MP Gavin Robsinson said: “I understand a recycling plant in the Harbour Estate is currently ablaze, with fire crews in attendance.
“A large plume of smoke is affecting parts of Inner East Belfast, including Victoria Park. “Residents nearby are advised to keep windows and doors closed as a precaution, particularly where smoke is visible or there is a strong smell in the air. “Please avoid the immediate area and allow emergency services to carry out their work safely.”
More to follow.
Follow our live blog below for updates on this developing story.
