A huge explosion near a former chemical plant in Kilwinning has sparked a major emergency response, with thick white smoke engulfing the area and fireballs seen erupting from the site.
The incident occurred near the former ICI chemical plant at West Byrehill Industrial Estate around 4pm on Tuesday. Emergency services were quickly dispatched as towering plumes of smoke could be seen for miles across North Ayrshire.
Footage shared with the Daily Record shows terrified residents watching from nearby streets as orange flames and smoke filled the sky, with projectiles shooting from the blaze. Witnesses described the scene as “like something from a disaster movie.”
Public Health Warnings and Road Closures
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has urged local residents to keep all windows and doors closed while firefighters continue to battle the blaze. A number of fire appliances remain at the scene.
Police Scotland issued a statement confirming the scale of the incident:
“Emergency services are in attendance at a fire in West Byrehill Industrial Estate, Kilwinning. Motorists and pedestrians are asked to avoid the area.”
Byrehill Road has been closed, with North Ayrshire Council confirming widespread disruption and advising residents to stay indoors.
“There is significant travel disruption in and around the Kilwinning area,” a council spokesperson said. “Please avoid this area if you can.”
Smoke Visible for Miles
One bystander described the view from nearby Ardrossan:
“I saw the smoke in the sky for miles while driving on the bypass between Ardrossan and Stevenston. Fire appliances were racing to the scene, but traffic was at a standstill.”
The incident comes nearly a year after another fire broke out at a battery recycling centre on the same industrial estate, raising concerns among locals about the safety of the site.
Investigation Underway
The cause of the explosion and fire is currently unknown, and no injuries have been confirmed at this stage. The SFRS and other emergency services remain on-site, and a full investigation is expected to follow.
Authorities are continuing to monitor air quality and structural hazards in the surrounding area. Residents are urged to follow updates through local council and emergency service channels.
