Homes evacuated as factories and tyres burn near Tipton

Firefighters are dealing with a “significant” blaze involving 20 tonnes of tyres in the West Midlands.

Four factory units are involved in the fire, with several nearby homes evacuated “as a precaution”.

More than 70 firefighters have been at the scene on Great Bridge Street, between Tipton and West Bromwich after the fire service was called at about 10:40 BST.

Seventeen fire engines have been sent to the site, said West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS), along with several specialist resources. No casualties have been reported.

The fire has sent a thick plume of smoke into the air with members of the public being warned to stay away from the area.

One social media user posted on X that it could be seen from as far away as Bilston, about four miles away.

Initially, the fire involved a single-storey unit measuring 100m by 100m, WMFS said, but it later confirmed four units were involved.

At 19:35 BST, WMFS said crews were continuing work at the scene.

A structural engineer attended the incident due to structural concerns and a partial collapse in one area

The engineer will make an assessment.

A WMFS spokesperson said: “Working with West Midlands Police and the local authority, we’re ensuring local residents affected by the evacuation, and businesses, are kept safe.

“Some fire investigations have taken place, with further investigations expected tomorrow, when it is safe to do so.

“Regular multi-agency briefings are taking place and we expect to continue to remain in attendance for some time.”

West Midlands Police have co-ordinated the evacuation of several homes on Elwell Street, with residents being relocated, the service said.

A drone team was on site alongside three hydraulic aerial platforms and high-volume pump team, it added.

Water was being taken from a nearby canal.

It thanked local residents and businesses for their patience while crews work to bring the fire under control.

They were advised to keep doors and windows closed due to the large volumes of smoke in the area.

Representatives from National Grid, Severn Trent, the Environment Agency and Sandwell Council were also at the scene.