Massive fire erupts at Swindon industrial estate after explosion

A huge fire has broken out in Swindon after an explosion at an industrial estate.

The blaze erupted at Groundwell Industrial Estate shortly after 7pm following a loud bang heard across Swindon.

A giant plume of smoke has filled the sky above as the fire rages, with locals told to keep their windows and doors closed.

Azz, who lives in a housing estate opposite the fire, said he and his wife were on the sofa when they heard a ‘massive bang that vibrated the whole flat’.

 

He told: ‘We thought someone might be kicking the door in or something, so we opened the front door and saw our neighbors also investigating.

‘We then saw loads of people out in the street looking for something and that’s when we saw the huge billowing smoke! Looked like a volcano had erupted or something!

The immediate area of the industrial estate is being evacuated, with the blaze affecting one large commercial premises on the site.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said an investigation into the cause will begin as soon as it is safe to do so.

Swindon Police said: ‘We are currently dealing with a serious incident at Groundwell Industrial Estate, Crompton Road.

‘An explosion has occurred in one of the industrial units and we are working alongside colleagues from the ambulance and fire service to make the area safe.

‘A large cordon is in place and Cricklade Road between Queensfield and Thamesdown Drive is currently closed.

‘Members of the public who live nearby should stay inside, close all windows and avoid the area of the industrial estate for their own safety.

‘We are working to evacuate the immediate area of the industrial estate but there is no need for residential dwellings to evacuate.

‘The A419 remains open.’