Police say the explosion originated in one of the industrial units on the Groundwell Industrial Estate at Crompton Road. Emergency services, including firefighters and ambulance crews, are currently working at the scene alongside police officers.
Readers and witnesses have expressed their shock at the aftermath of the incident. Jillian Perry reported seeing a large emergency response near Asda Walmart in Penhill, stating, “Seen 8 ambulances, 2 fire engines, 10 police cars by Asda Walmart, Penhill.”
Meanwhile, Clare Harris, who was on Kingsdown Road, described hearing a loud bang: “We heard a big bang and wondered what it was. Thought something had fallen over upstairs or something!”
Jennie Fellowes shared a photo of the blaze and recounted her experience of the explosion: “We were in Seven Fields. It was a hiss, then a huge bang, followed by sounds like fireworks with the fire crackling. Really hope people are safe.”
Gavin Rozee, located across town in Stratton near the fire station, said he could both hear and feel the explosion: “Ah, that’s what it was. Heard and felt this from all the way in Stratton near the fire station.”
One eyewitness, speaking to the Adver at around 8pm, described the scene: “My house shook. It’s scared everyone. We believe it’s Groundwell Industrial Estate. Some sort of explosion. Everyone has been pushed back and embers are coming over into the estate. The fire is spreading.”
A significant cordon has been put in place to keep members of the public safe while emergency services work to evacuate the industrial estate. Nearby residential homes are not required to evacuate; however, residents have been advised to stay indoors and close all windows for their own safety.
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