Around 100 firefighters are battling a major blaze at a recycling centre in southeast London after thick black smoke was seen billowing across the capital’s skyline on Monday evening.
Fifteen fire engines were dispatched to the fire on Landmann Way in Bermondsey after emergency services were alerted shortly after 5.30pm.
Footage shared on social media showed huge plumes of smoke rising high above the area as crews raced to the scene from Deptford, Old Kent Road and Greenwich.
The London Fire Brigade confirmed that approximately 100 firefighters were tackling the fire, which broke out at a recycling facility.
Specialist equipment has been deployed to help bring the blaze under control, including two of the Brigade’s 32-metre turntable ladders, allowing firefighters to attack the fire from above.
As smoke continued to spread across the area, the London Fire Brigade issued a warning to residents and motorists for people to avoid the area.
The Brigade said: ‘Please avoid the area while the incident is ongoing.’
It added: ‘Due to the significant amount of smoke in the area, local residents are advised to keep their windows and doors closed.’
Emergency crews remain at the scene and the cause of the fire has not yet been established.
No injuries have been reported at this stage.
