FIREFIGHTERS remain at the scene of a blaze at a waste facility that started more than a week ago, with operations expected to continue for some time.
Crews have been at the scene at the landfill site near Ladybank in Fife since the alarm was raised at about 1.35pm on May 12.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said it remains a “complex and protracted incident” due to the “deep-seated nature” of the fire and the volume of material involved.
SFRS said that operations at the site are expected to continue for some time.
At the height of the incident, 12 appliances and specialist resources were dealing with the blaze.
Three fire engines were still at the scene as of 6.30am on Wednesday.
An investigation by The National has found that the adjacent landfill site was found to be “major non‑compliant” at its last inspection by Scotland’s environment watchdog.
The agency clarified that these issues are related to the landfill’s operation and are “not directly associated” with the blaze in the separate waste transfer station, which has been sending smoke over nearby communities for over a week.
SFRS said the blaze is now under control but warned that smoke from the fire may travel a “significant distance” depending on wind direction and weather conditions.
They advised people to limit time outdoors where smoke is present, and to keep windows and doors closed and remain indoors where possible.
Area commander Lee Turnock, local senior officer for Clackmannanshire, Fife, and Stirling area, said: “While the fire is now under control, this remains a complex and protracted incident due to the deep-seated nature of the fire and the volume of material involved.
“People in surrounding areas may continue to notice smoke coming from the site as firefighters carry out damping down pockets of fire.
“We would ask residents to follow public safety advice, including keeping windows and doors closed and limiting time outdoors where smoke is present.”
He continued: “I would also like to thank the local community for their patience, understanding and support while firefighters continue working to make the area safe.”
The fire spread across an area measuring approximately 200m by 300m and has involved recycled material and waste.
There are no reports of any casualties.
