A major fire broke out late last night at a recycling centre on Millbank Street, Southampton, sending thick plumes of smoke across the city and prompting a significant response from emergency services.

The fire, which started at around 10:30 pm, engulfed a commercial property, resulting in hazardous conditions and a strong burning smell that residents in nearby areas, including Bond Street reported.

Seven fire engines, along with two aerial ladder platforms, were dispatched to the scene as firefighters from across the region, including St Mary’s, Hightown, Redbridge, Eastleigh, Portchester, Fareham, Alton, and Basingstoke, worked through the night to bring the blaze under control.

Residents described large clouds of smoke billowing over the city as crews battled to contain the flames. Firefighters used two claw cranes to sift through the burnt rubble, continuing their efforts into the early morning hours.

By 2:00 am, a spokesperson for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that the fire had been brought under control.

We will shortly be scaling down our presence onsite as the fire has been brought under control,” the spokesperson said. Two fire engines will remain on scene for the time being to continue damping down and dealing with any hotspots.

Though the fire was eventually controlled, crews remained cautious, working to secure the site and address any remaining areas of concern.

At this stage, the cause of the fire remains unknown, and investigations are expected to continue in the coming days.

No injuries have been reported, and authorities are urging anyone with information about the fire to come forward as the investigation unfolds.