BLAST HEARD MILES AWAY
Island leaders say probe to reassure factory’s neighbours is a must:
INCREDIBLE photos taken by an eyewitness show the Alpoco powder factory explosion as it happened.
It has been confirmed that the explosion was the result of a fire at the AMG Alpoco manufacturing plant, on the former Anglesey Aluminium Site, on London Road, Holyhead.
The site produces aluminium powder used in a variety of materials, including pastes and chemicals. The fire was confined to a hopper – a container for a loose bulk material.
Emergency services – including an air ambulance – rushed to the scene and firefighters are believed to have been tackling the blaze well into Saturday night.
The photos were taken by Kevin Clark from the Four Mile Bridge, which connects Holy Island and Anglesey.
Speaking to our sister paper the Daily Post, he explained that smoke and flames were clearly visible above the trees – with a cloud significantly higher than the surrounding nature. He also told us that moments after the photo was taken there was a flash of light, followed by a loud bang just a second or so later.
The blast travelled as far as Llanfachraeth and was even heard in Rhosneigr.
North Wales Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that “all persons at the works were safely accounted for” and “there were no casualties requiring treatment at the scene” – though two men did later seek medical attention for minor injuries.
On Monday, the Health and Safety Executive confirmed it was making initial enquiries.
But island leaders said it was vital that a thorough investigation allayed concerns about the plant on the former Anglesey Alumium site.
The island’s AM, Rhun ap Iorwerth, said he was “eager” to hear the result of any investigation into the incident.
He said: “I’m grateful for the way the emergency services responded to Saturday’s explosion, and I was relieved to hear that there weren’t more serious injuries.
“Concerns have been raised with me about the cause of this explosion, and the fact that it’s not the first. I have asked my team to contact Alpoco to ask for their report on the incident, and I’ll also be eager to hear the result of investigations by the relevant authorities.
“It’s important that people living locally have confidence in safety at the site.”
Albert Owen MP added his calls for an investigation into what happened.
Mr Owen said: “Firstly, I was relieved to hear that no one was seriously hurt and hopefully the damage to the plant isn’t too extensive.
“I would also like to thank the emergency services for their swift response.
“However, there needs to be an investigation and to make sure that as reasonably practicable, these events do not occur in the future, reassuring residents who live in close proximity.”
Cllr Trefor Lloyd Hughes, who represents the local area, says he has already contacted the town council and local politicians in a bid to arrange a meeting involving the relevant parties.
Cllr Hughes said: “I have nothing against the company nor their staff whatsoever but this isn’t the first time this has happened. It concerns me that this is happening – a sentiment that’s shared with many local people I’ve spoken to – and I think it would be beneficial to get everyone together so that we can discuss these concerns.
“I understand that the building has been specially built in a way that won’t affect the town but this must be the fourth or fifth time this has happened over the years.”
He added: “I’m not after anyone’s heads or anything, but it would be beneficial for everyone to get these things out in the open.”