Major incident ongoing after explosion at Treforest Industrial Estate
At least one building's been destroyed and several roads remain closed
Last updated 14th Dec 2023
One person remains unaccounted for after reports of an explosion and a "significant fire" at an industrial estate in South Wales.
At least one building's been destroyed and a major incident's been declared at Treforest near Pontypridd.
Firefighters say a two-storey building, believed to house a gym and other businesses, is at risk of collapse.
Emergency services remain at the scene on Severn Road, Treforest Industrial Estate, Rhondda Cynon Taff.
This follows reports of an explosion at a property shortly after 7.00pm.
There are no reports of any serious injuries, however, one person remains unaccounted for.
Residents living nearby are advised to close all doors and windows while the incident is ongoing.
South Wales Police said: "Businesses in the area are requested to implement their own business continuity plans to deal with the on-going road closures which will affect them throughout the night and into the morning."
Significant road closures remain in place and the public is requested to avoid the area.
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service Deputy Chief Fire Officer Dewi Rose said: “At 7.05pm this evening SWFRS responded to repeat calls about an explosion at Mindset Gym, Rizla House, Severn Road on Treforest Industrial Estate, Pontypridd.
“Our partners from South Wales Police, WAST, Wales & West Utilities, NRW, RCTCBC, CTMUHB and National Grid are supporting us to deal with the incident, and at the moment our focus is firmly fixed on the emergency response.”
Emergency services who attended the initial calls last night have been thanked for their help by local leaders.
Councillor Andrew Morgan posted on X (Twitter) to thank those responding.
Local hospitals were initially put on high alert last night and asked people not to attend A&E so they could focus on treating those who needed it most.
Those measures have since been stood down with no serious injuries reported from the scene overnight.
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