People told to stay indoors after 'industrial' fire in Birkenhead

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) confirmed they attended the incident on Marion Street this morning (Wednesday, October 16) with six fire engines.

Merseyside Police also attended and managed traffic with a number of surrounding roads closed and drivers advised to avoid the area. 

(Image: Craig Manning, Newsquest) A spokesperson for MFRS said: "Crews were alerted at 5:45am and on scene shortly after. 

"On arrival crews found smoke issuing from an industrial unit measuring approximately 50m by 30m. Four firefighters wearing breathing apparatus investigated the cause of smoke using a main branch hose.

"Crews found a container producing smoke and heat. Two firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used a hose reel jet to cool it."

"The temperature is steadily decreasing and crews are using ventilation fans to clear smoke from the area.

"There is still a large amount of smoke in the area so nearby residents and businesses should keep doors and windows closed. Those with existing health conditions should keep medicines nearby and if any ill effects are experienced dial NHS 111."

A further update from MFRS at 4.45pm said: "The incident has continued to reduce in severity as firefighters have made efforts to cool the affected area.

"This has enabled resources to be released and now there is only one fire engine on scene.

"However, there is still some smoke coming from the area involved and residents and businesses nearby should continue to keep doors and windows shut."

(Image: Craig Manning, Newsquest) The incident caused the closure of the nearby Conway Park campus of Wirral Met College with students turned away and told to go home. 

A statement from Wirral Met said: "We have been advised by the Fire Service to close our Conway Park campus due to an incident in a nearby building.

"All lessons scheduled to take place at Conway Park today have been cancelled.

"Our other campuses are open as normal."