By Eleanor Lawson, BBC News, West Midlands
Firefighters are tackling a blaze at a factory in Birmingham, with billowing black smoke visible across the city.
West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) said they had 80 firefighters in attendance at Hastingwood Industrial Park on Wood Lane in Erdington, near the Fort Dunlop retail park and M6.
A spokesperson for the fire service said: “This is a fire in a factory, which is not currently affecting The Fort shopping centre which is nearby.
“This is a significant incident. Plan your journeys accordingly.”
Thirteen fire engines, three 4×4 brigade response vehicles and a hydraulic platform are there, according to the fire service, with more resources likely to be mobilised.
WMFS has advised people to avoid the area and close doors and windows if affected by the smoke.
West Midlands Police said it was supporting fire colleagues with road closures.
The AA said Wood Lane was closed both ways between A4040 Bromford Lane and Holly Lane.
The motoring organisation added there was congestion on surrounding routes around Bromford and Tyburn including the A38 Tyburn Road and Bromford Lane.
The fire is near, but not affecting, the Esso Birmingham Terminal.
The terminal operates 24/7 and deals with unleaded, super unleaded diesel, and gas oil.
It was built in 1962 and has 17 above-ground main storage tanks with a combined capacity of 50,000 cubic metres.
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Friday 10 January 2025 12:11 pm | Updated: Friday 10 January 2025 12:32 pm Share