News / fire
Large fire breaks out in recycling centre
A large fire broke out at the recycling facility of Bristol Waste in Avonmouth on Friday evening.
The recycling centre at Poplar Way East in Avonmouth was evacuated as the fire broke out around 4.30pm, sending thick black plumes of smoke visible as far as Clevedon and Portishead.
Avon Fire & Rescue Service responded to the scene with 16 fire engines in operation.
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It is believed that no one was injured in the fire. Avon Fire & Rescue Services said the fire was accidental and originated from the shrubs next to the recycling centre.
Activities at Bristol Waste recycling centre remains under control after the large fire that broke out on Friday
Later in the evening, Avon Fire & Rescue Service confirmed that the fire had been largely contained, with four fire engines remaining at the scene to monitor the situation overnight.
When Bristol24/7 visited the site on Saturday morning, there were still several firefighters at the premises.
The recycling centre will remain closed on Saturday, while the facilities at St Philip’s and Hartcliffe will be open as usual. The centre at Avonmouth will open on Monday.
Several firefighters were still present at the site on Saturday morning
Speaking to Bristol24/7, a spokesperson for Bristol Waste stated: “Our Avonmouth site, including the Household Recycling Centre, Reuse Shop and Depot will remain closed over the weekend (April 5 and 6) after a fire spread from adjoining land at around 4.30pm on Friday 4 April 2025.
“We are grateful to the fire crews who attended the scene quickly and, working alongside our site team, were able to extinguish the fire and keep everyone safe. We are monitoring the site closely and carrying out clean-up activities.
“We intend to open as normal on Monday April 7. Please go to our social media channels and website for updates.”
The spokesperson added: “For those booked to visit our Avonmouth Household Reuse and Recycling Centre this weekend, please do not attempt to visit the site. Instead use our St Philip’s Days Road and Hartcliffe Way Household Reuse and Recycling Centres, which will be open as normal and will welcome existing Avonmouth bookings.”
The recycling centre in Avonmouth remains closed for Saturday
A spokesperson for Avon Fire and Rescue Service said: “The fire was accidental and originated from the bushes and shrubs adjacent to the recycling centre which then spread. No casualties from the incident, and reinspections of the area were carried out throughout the night.”
All photos: Milan Perera
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