Tipner fire: Firefighters making 'good progress' in tackling huge fire at TJ Waste with 117 tonnes ablaze
Firefighters are making ‘good progress’ in their efforts to tackle a huge fire in Portsmouth which has left much of the city covered in smoke.
Fire crews have been on the scene of the fire at a two-storey building at TJ Waste and Recycling in Tipner Lane since 6.30am this yesterday morning. Smoke from the fire has been blowing across the city, leading to the closure of the M275 twice for safety reasons.
It is not expected the reopen again until the end of the day (Sunday, July 7), with the city’s park and ride service also suspended. However, Eastern Road is open with southbound lane closures by Southern Water also suspended to help with the city’s traffic flow.
Hampshire fire and rescue had initially believed between 60 and 100 tonnes of waste was alight at the site - but this evening have confirmed that 117 tonnes was on fire.
In a statement the fire service said: “The fire which began in the early hours of yesterday morning (6 July, 2024) in a large waste processing unit consisting of two floors, containing 117 tonnes of domestic waste material, was completely consumed by the fire.
“A high volume pumping unit, with the assistance of high pressure jets, positive pressure ventilation systems and polybooms are being utilised. Teams remain on site spreading the smouldering waste material and continue to monitor the incident.”
More as we get it.