Firefighters continue tackling blaze at Cornish waste facility
Locals are urged to keep doors and windows closed
Cornwall Council is thanking firefighters who've been tackling a blaze at a waste facility for over a week.
In the latest update yesterday (30/7), the authority said the blaze at Lean Quarry was still burning.
The fire is being monitored but crews can't enter the building at the moment as it's been deemed unsafe.
The fire service confirmed back on July 28: "The fire at the waste site in Horningtops is still in a controlled burning phase whilst the structure is being made safe.
"As incident tactics evolve to expediate the operation, the smoke plume may affect the immediate local area.
"We advise to keep windows closed if downwind of the site and will be updating as to progress."
Biffa, which owns the site, is working to appoint a contractor to demolish the structure which will allow access to the fire.
Cornwall Council, Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS), the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Biffa are continuing to monitor smoke in the area.
As a precaution, nearby residents are advised to stay indoors where possible, and keep windows and doors closed.
Scott Brown, Station Manager at Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service, said: “The stack of waste where the fire broke out is 15-20 metres in height and contains a huge amount of general waste.
“This is a very complex incident, and we are working with partners to ensure it can be brought to an end as quickly as possible.
“In the meantime, we ask that residents follow the advice to keep their windows and doors closed.”
Councillor Thalia Marrington, cabinet member with responsibility for Community Wellbeing and Public Health at Cornwall Council, said: “I’d like to thank all the firefighters who have worked on this incident and helped contain the fire.
“I appreciate how frustrating this situation is for residents living nearby, but please be assured we are doing everything we can to bring it to a safe conclusion.
“If you live nearby, please do keep your windows and doors closed for the time being.
“If anyone is concerned about their health due to the smoke, I urge them to contact their GP or NHS 111.”