Firefighters have been battling a significant blaze at the Brucefield Industrial Estate in Livingston, West Lothian, almost 24 hours after the fire broke out on Saturday afternoon. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) received the first emergency call around 1:07 PM, prompting the dispatch of multiple fire engines and emergency crews to the scene. Eyewitness reports and dramatic footage captured the extensive flames and thick smoke billowing from several units within the industrial park; at one point, the fire was so intense it could be seen from as far away as Fife.
The SFRS confirmed the presence of nine fire engines at the location, and as many as 35 firefighters worked tirelessly to contain and manage the fire. Local residents were advised to keep their windows and doors shut as thick smoke filled the area. Fortunately, reports indicate there have been no injuries from this dangerous incident.
By the next morning, fire crews remained at the scene to secure the site and monitor the aftermath of the blaze. A spokesperson for SFRS noted, “We still have two appliances at Livingston’s Brucefield Industrial Estate, with crews working to make the area safe. Thankfully, people no longer need to avoid the area as nearby homes can also reopen their windows and doors.”
Among the businesses affected was Snag Tights, which operates from the warehouse adjacent to the fire site. The company took to social media to express relief for the safety of their staff, stating, “We had word this afternoon [Saturday] our warehouse opposite Snag was on fire. The blaze is quite big. We know for sure all our people are safe, and we’re praying no one in the other buildings is hurt. At the moment our stock is safe, and firefighters are working hard to stop the fire.”
Initially, following the ignition of the fire, police were also called to the scene to assist with road closures. Officers closed several roads surrounding the area, including at Wilderness Roundabout, Cochrane Square, and Brucefield Park West, and warned motorists to avoid the vicinity as they aided fire crews with maintaining safety. According to Police Scotland, the fire was reported at around 1:35 PM the same day and was spreading to multiple buildings within the estate.
The extent of the flames led to fears for public safety, but officials have downplayed the risk, assuring residents there was no broader danger to the public. A West Lothian Council spokesperson reassured the public, saying, “The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is advising people to avoid the area, and nearby houses should keep windows and doors closed. No casualties have been reported.”
One business, Astro Gymnastics, which is also located within the industrial park, confirmed all staff and children attending classes safely evacuated after the fire erupted. They posted on social media to notify parents and other gymnasts of their safe relocation, stating, “Everybody is out of the building and safe. Please don’t come to the industrial park. We will be moving to the Larder at Bellsquarry if you need to find anyone.” Community members quickly offered support and assistance, showcasing the solidarity during this worrying episode.
Image footage from the incident showed the ferocious fire ravaging various units, with firefighters working diligently until the late hours of Saturday night and early Sunday morning to quell the flames. The dramatic images highlighted the sheer intensity of the situation, demonstrating the SFRS's commitment to managing the emergency.
Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the fire, and investigations are presently underway as firefighters continue to secure the area. Local businesses have expressed their gratitude toward the emergency responders for their swift actions, but the effects of the fire may be felt long beyond these initial hours.
Throughout Saturday, updates from various businesses and officials on social media helped to keep both the media and the public informed about the situation. SFRS continues to monitor the premises as part of their routine post-incident safety checks, ensuring no latent embers could reignite the blaze at this industrial hub.
At this time, it remains unclear what specific damage has occurred to individual businesses within the industrial estate, but many staff members and owners appeared relieved no injuries were reported.
Fire officials are expected to provide additional statements as they assess the scene and begin investigations to determine the cause and impact of this blaze. Meanwhile, as clean-up efforts commence, the Livingston community is coming together, ready to support those affected by this horrific accident.
This incident at the Brucefield Industrial Estate serves as a timely reminder of the potential hazards associated with industrial activities and the need for maintaining rigorous safety protocols to prevent such occurrences.
Stay tuned to local news outlets for continuing updates on this developing story, and please avoid the area to allow emergency services to carry out their work safely.