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Evacuation after large fire at recycling centre

Chris James A large plume of smoke can be seen in the skyline around some wind turbines and pylons.Chris James
The smoke from the fire in Avonmouth can be seen as far away as Portishead

A large fire has broken out at a recycling centre on the outskirts of Bristol.

The Bristol Waste site in Poplar Way East, Avonmouth, has been evacuated and the blaze is ongoing.

The fire can be seen from the M5 and M49, and residents in Portishead and Clevedon have reported seeing smoke.

Avon Fire and Rescue servcice said 16 fire engines had been sent to the Avonmouth depot. The BBC understands no-one has been injured in the blaze.

Two police officers stand next to a police car by a closed road
Emergency services at the scene in Avonmouth

Firefighters advised people to avoid the area and residents have been told to keep their windows and doors shut.

Bristol Waste said Avonmouth Household Reuse and Recycling Centre will remain closed on Saturday.

A spokesperson said: "We are following the health and safety procedures we have in place and will provide updates on our social media channels and website as soon as we know when the site will reopen."

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