Residents have been told to stay home as firefighters deal with the aftermath of a recycling plant fire in Ayrshire.
Emergency services were called to Fenix Battery Recycling on Byrehill Place in Kilwinning on Monday at around 10pm.
Hundreds of residents were forced to leave their homes after the surrounding area was evacuated as flames engulfed the recycling centre and firefighters battled the blaze through the night.
Loud banging noises were heard by residents who said it “sounded like a terror attack” while material inside exploded.
Alex TurnerThe banging was heard from as far as the neighbouring towns of Irvine and Stevenson.
Six fire engines and a height appliance were sent to the scene and have remained there for more than 20 hours.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service issued an update at 6.45pm on Tuesday advising locals to stay indoors, and keep their windows closed as a precaution.
STV News spoke to locals forced out of their homes who said the hub had always been a “worry” and was an “accident waiting to happen”.
Videos showed large plumes of smoke billowing out of the factory, with witnesses reporting hearing blasts.
SFRS area commander Jim Quinn said: “We continue to work with the recycling centre and partner agencies to minimise the disruption to the local community and will continue to provide updates.
“While smoke continues to be visible, we would ask that residents remain at home, and keep windows and doors closed as a precaution.
“If travelling through smoke, motorists should keep windows closed, turn off air conditioning and keep their air vents closed.”
Fenix Battery Recycling has been contacted for comment.
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