Kilwinning residents told to stay in doors after battery plant fire

People living near the site of a major fire at a battery recycling centre in Kilwinning are being urged to shelter at home, and avoid spending too much time outdoors.

Police Scotland has issued advice to residents in the West Byrehill area, more than 24 hours after the blaze first broke out at the factory on Byrehill place.

People living near the site are advised to:

• Keep all doors and windows closed

• Avoid going out walking if possible, and keep time outside to a minimum

• If anyone becomes unwell, medical advice should be sought by contacting your local General Practitioner (GP) or by calling NHS111

• Care at home services will still be able to attend, they may require to use facemasks

• If travelling through smoke, motorists should keep windows closed, turn off air conditioning and keep their air vents closed.

Residents of the West Byrehill housing estate should also receive specific sheltering advice via Cunningham Housing Association. People there are being urged not to leave their homes or encourage people to visit.

Emergency services remain at the scene of the fire, and local road closures are in place.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is working with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and Public Health Scotland to monitor the situation as a precaution.

Police Scotland says there has, as yet, been no requirement to evacuate residents, but adds that this will be kept under review.

People affected are also encouraged to keep an eye out for update on social media from emergency services, NHS Ayrshire and Arran and North Ayrshire Council.

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