Residents told to shut windows after blaze
RESIDENTS were advised to keep their windows and doors closed yesterday after more than 2,000 tonnes of rubbish caught fire at a recycling plant.
The large blaze at Llandow Trading Estate in Cowbridge started just before 7pm on Thursday and remained alight more than 24 hours later.
Fire crews remained at the scene yesterday. The cause of the fire is not yet unknown and investigation work will start once the fire is completely out.
It is the fourth large fire on the site, which the fire service believe to be owned by recycling company Siteserve, in just under four years.
Huge plumes of black smoke were seen rising from the plant on Thursday.
A spokeswoman for the fire service said the cause of the fire was currently unknown and nobody was harmed.
Local residents were strongly advised to keep all doors and windows closed due to acrid smoke.
The Vale of Glamorgan council’s emergency planning team was working to limit disruption, while there was no impact on the local water supply.
A minor road leading to the site remained closed but there was no other impact on other roads. Local schools were advised to open as usual.
Public Health Wales environmental health protection experts were monitoring the situation and working with the Vale of Glamorgan Council, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service and Natural Resources Wales.
Andrew Kibble, from Public Health Wales’ environmental public health team, said they were so far unaware of reports of anyone experiencing ill effects as a result of the fire.
He said: “If you live in an area affected by smoke, stay inside and close all doors and windows. This will greatly reduce your exposure to the smoke.
“If you have to go outside, try to keep away from the areas affected by visible smoke or ash.
“Motorists who have to travel through the smoke should keep their windows closed, turn off air conditioning and keep their air vents closed.
“Exposure to smoke may irritate your eyes, nose and throat and you may experience coughing, wheezing and breathlessness. For most people, these symptoms will disappear very quickly and will not lead to longterm health problems.
“If you have asthma, it may be worsened by exposure to smoke and so you should carry your inhaler at all times.
“You may smell smoke in the area but this will usually be below levels where it is harmful to health.”
Anyone concerned about any symptoms they are experiencing are advised to contact their GP or NHS Direct Wales on 0845 46 47.