Bermondsey Recycling Centre Fire: 100 Firefighters Battle Blaze in South London

A large fire at the Landmann Way Reuse and Recycling Centre in Bermondsey, south London, required the efforts of 100 firefighters and 15 fire engines to bring under control.

A significant fire broke out at the Landmann Way Reuse and Recycling Centre in Bermondsey, south Londonon Monday evening, prompting a substantial response from the London Fire Brigade (LFB). The blaze, which involved a large amount of refuse and a warehouse unit, was brought under control shortly before midnight, according to the LFB.

The fire service received multiple calls around 5:30 PM and dispatched 15 fire engines and approximately 100 firefighters to the scene. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, and firefighting efforts continued overnight to fully extinguish the fire and address remaining hotspots.

The Firefighting Effort and Safety Measures

Station Commander Wayne Bloomfieldwho attended the scene, highlighted the extensive efforts made by firefighters to extinguish the blaze. At its peak, the fire involved a substantial amount of refuse and a warehouse unit. Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries.

Due to the significant amount of smoke generated by the fire, residents in the vicinity were advised to keep their windows and doors closed. Additionally, loose embers were reported, a common occurrence during large fires. Residents were advised to pour water onto any loose embers they found on or near their properties. If the embers ignited anything, they were instructed to call 999 immediately.

The LFB deployed two of its 32-metre turntable ladders to combat the fire from above. A Hose Layer Unit was also present, supporting frontline appliances by laying large-capacity hose lines over long distances to supply water to the fire ground.

Disruption to Rail Services

The fire at the recycling plant caused major rail disruption in the area, according to Network Rail. Services in and out of London Bridgeincluding those operated by Southeastern and Thameslinkfaced delays and cancellations. Images posted on social media showed large clouds of smoke rising into the air, underscoring the severity of the situation.

Control Officers received the first of multiple calls at 5:32 PM and mobilized crews from Deptford, Old Kent Road, Greenwichand surrounding fire stations to the scene. The fire was brought under control by 11:57 PMmarking the end of a protracted incident that kept firefighters on the scene well into the night.

The LFB emphasized that the cause of the fire is still under investigation. Residents and commuters affected by the disruption were advised to stay informed about any further updates regarding rail services and the ongoing investigation.