Fire at recycling plant disrupts rush hour traffic

Crews are still fighting a huge fire at St Erth in Cornwall, which has caused major problems on rail and roads this morning (9 August).

They were called to the recycling yard next to St Erth station just after 8pm last night.

The yard is full of tyres and other recyclable goods. There is also a large diesel and oil tank on site.

Thick black smoke was coming from the plant and could be seen for miles.

Sarah Peck captured the ominous sight on her mobile phone.

  • Watch footage of the St Erth fire at its height

Footage courtesy Sarah Peck

In total, seven fire engines, two aerial ladders, two water carriers and a high volume pump were brought in - as well as foam units - to tackle the blaze.

The site is next to the St Erth line and all trains were stopped so firefighters could tackle the blaze Credit: Michael Curnow

Network Rail stopped all trains on the St Erth line last night, including the main lines and the St Ives branch line so that firefighters could work on the railway line.

Trains are likely to be affected all day.

Devon and Cornwall Police, Western Power, the Environment Agency and Highways England all have representatives on scene.

Emergency management and Public Health England have also been informed and are assisting.

People living near the fire have been warned to keep doors and windows closed Credit: Rosalind Jones

Cornwall Fire & Rescue service has issued a warning about the smoke billowing from the site.

Firefighters are likely to remain at the scene for some time to come

Smoke from the fire could even be seen off the Lizard Credit: Ross Outterside