Work underway to identify cause of giant fire at Tiverton Business Park

Work is underway to try and identify the cause of a huge fire that broke out at Tiverton Business Park.

Investigators say it could be some time as it is still too dangerous to enter the units at an industrial estate on the edge of the town.

A 150m cordon remains in place and fire crews are still damping down.

At its height 80 firefighters battled the flames on Sunday evening and through the night into Monday morning.

80 firefighters battled the flames

Inspector Daniel Jones from Tiverton Police told us: "It's so hot at the moment from the damage that has been caused, and is so smoky, that we might not be able to go in safely until later this afternoon."

Incident commander Simon McNamara added: "Our initial attendance arrived and quickly requested further resources. We ended up with a total of 10 fire appliances, some further specialist appliances, and then a total of maybe 80 firefighters throughout most of the night to extinguish the fire, we've now scaled that back down.

"We're working with the utility companies to isolate a number of gas leaks within the building, we're monitoring the safety of the building as there are signs of collapse in partial areas and we are continuing to damp down the remaining smouldering areas."

What we know so far

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service were called to Tiverton Business Park on Lowman Way after receiving several calls from members of the public that four units were affected by fire and the fire was spreading rapidly.

Twelve fire engines plus specialist appliances including an aerial ladder platform and high volume pump were sent to the scene. Police and ambulance colleagues were also in attendance.

The fire was affecting several businesses used for carpet and flooring, piano and building supplies.

A 150 metre cordon was put in place for public safety and firefighters are working to prevent the fire spreading to other units.

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• devon and somerset fire and rescue service
• tiverton