Firefighters from Cleveland Fire Brigade remain on scene of the blaze on Westerby Road on Skippers Lane Industrial Estate in Middlesbrough. The incident sent smoke billowing into the sky above Middlesbrough and local residents and businesses were asked to avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed.

The fire broke out and quickly tore through an industrial unit on Westerby Road shortly after 2:13pm the incident saw fire engines from all over Teesside respond as crews struggled to bring the inferno under control.

A spokesperson for Cleveland Fire Brigade said: “Cleveland Fire Brigade are currently in attendance at an incident on Westerby Road, Skippers Lane in Middlesbrough. 10 fire engines are at the scene. Please avoid the area if you can.

“If you are in close proximity we would advise residents and local businesses to keep all doors and windows closed.”

South Bank residents described dramatic scenes as smoke filled the area, with one resident describing their estate turning black with the smoke.

At the height of the fire flames could be seen coming through the roof, doorways and even air vents in the exterior walls as a result of the intense fire the structure partially collapsed. Cleveland Fire Brigade will remain on scene for several more hours to ensure all hotspots are full extinguished and that the area is made safe.

Last Updated on 7 February 2024