Crews tackle commercial building fire in Leicester

Residents have been advised to keep doors and windows closed after a fire at a commercial building in Leicester.

Fire fighters were called to the blaze on Cobden Street this morning with thick, grey smoke seen rising into the air.

The Environment Agency has been informed, with traffic around the area also affected.

Leicestershire Police are on the scene and say they are assisting colleagues from the Fire Service.

A spokesperson for Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service said: "We received a call at 11:52 to reports of a commercial building fire on Cobden Street, Leicester.

"Five appliances are in attendance from Eastern, Central, Western, Wigston and Coalville Fire Station including the Aerial Ladder Platform (ALP) and the Command Support Vehicle.

"Six breathing apparatus and three main jets are currently in use.

"A cordon is in place at both ends of the street, please avoid the area where possible. The Environment Agency has been informed.

"There is a smoke plume above the building, we advise residents to keep all windows and doors closed."

A police spokesperson said: "Leicestershire Police were contacted at 12.05pm today by Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service who were in attendance at a fire at a premises in Cobden Street, Leicester.

"Officers are assisting the fire service in the area and road closures are currently in place."

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