People living and travelling near Spring Vale, Greenhithe are being urged to keep their windows and doors closed this evening due to a large fire at a derelict builders’ merchants.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service were called to the scene shortly before 8pm and have deployed four fire engines to tackle the blaze. Thick smoke has been reported billowing from the site, prompting a public safety advisory from emergency services.

A spokesperson for the fire service said:

“We’re asking those in the surrounding area to keep windows and doors shut as a precaution due to the volume of smoke in the air. Our crews are working hard to bring the fire under control.”

At present, there are no reports of injuries. The cause of the fire is not yet known and an investigation is expected to follow once the flames are fully extinguished.

Authorities are also asking residents to check on any neighbours, especially those who may not have access to the internet or local news updates, to ensure they’re aware of the ongoing incident and the smoke advisory.

Emergency services remain at the scene, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.