Large commercial fire extinguished following a multi-agency response

Over 40 Fire and Rescue Service crews attended the scene of a large commercial fire at Gilchrist Thomas Industrial Estate in Blaenavon alongside emergency service colleagues and partner agencies.

Upon arrival, crews were faced with a large, well-developed fire affecting a large building, approximately 80m x 30m and several caravans and vehicles. The building and a large number of caravans and vehicles have been completely destroyed by fire.

Crews used specialist equipment, including a ground monitor, hose reel jets, aerial ladder platforms and water bowsers, to strategically manage the fire and prevent it from spreading to nearby buildings.

Members of the public were advised to avoid the area to allow for emergency service access. Local residents were also advised to keep their windows and doors closed due to the high levels of smoke in the area. These measures have now been lifted.

Road closures have also now been lifted, however, residents/occupiers are advised to proceed with caution as crews and partner agencies are still in attendance.

One person was rescued from the premises and all other persons have been accounted for.

Crews will remain at the scene to dampen down and carry out investigations with partner agencies.

Head of Risk Reduction for South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Jason Evans, said:

“We would like to thank the public for their cooperation during this complex and arduous incident.

Officers will remain at the scene for a number of hours to carry out investigations and we’d like to remind the public to proceed with caution in and around the area.

Our crews worked tirelessly to secure the area and worked with partner agencies to bring the incident to a safe conclusion.

We will continue to work alongside our partners to protect our communities and keep South Wales safe.”