This morning, a major fire erupted at a shipyard known for constructing the UK’s next-generation nuclear submarines, prompting a large emergency response and raising alarms among local residents.
The BAE Systems factory in Barrow, Cumbria, was engulfed in flames shortly after midnight, leading to two individuals being hospitalized.
Details of the Incident
The blaze appears to be concentrated in the six-acre Devonshire Dock Hall, where a £1.6 billion Astute-class nuclear submarine is currently under assembly.
While the cause of the fire remains unclear, local authorities have confirmed that there is no nuclear risk associated with the incident.
Emergency services have been active on-site, managing the situation as smoke billows from the factory.
Footage shared on social media shows thick smoke emerging from the building, leading local officials to advise residents to stay away from the area and keep doors and windows closed for safety.
Emergency Services Response
Cumbria Police released a statement around 4 a.m. confirming that emergency services are on the scene, addressing the fire reported shortly after 12:44 a.m.
Fortunately, it appears that everyone else at the Devonshire Dock Hall has been evacuated and accounted for, with only two reported cases of suspected smoke inhalation.
To facilitate emergency operations, a road closure is currently in effect on Michaelson Bridge.
BAE Systems has acknowledged the situation, stating they are collaborating with emergency services to manage the fire at their Barrow site.
Community Reactions
Local residents have expressed their concerns online, noting that the fire’s visibility from miles away has caused a sense of alarm.
One individual recounted hearing a loud thump from the building prior to the fire, while others shared their apprehensions about the incident, questioning the safety implications.
“It’s scary because the last thing you want is BAE of all places up in flames,” one local remarked, although they also noted that the absence of an emergency warning suggested that the threat might not be severe.
Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service urged residents to keep their windows and doors closed and to avoid the area as crews continue to battle the flames.
“We appreciate your cooperation while we deal with the incident,” they stated.
Historical Context
The Barrow shipyard has a rich history, having constructed nearly all of the UK’s nuclear submarine fleet over the past century.
The latest vessel, HMS Agincourt, is set for completion in 2026.
Notably, the site has seen its share of emergencies before, including a fire on a different Astute-class submarine in 2018 and a carbon monoxide leak that hospitalized several workers the previous year.
As the fire continues to unfold, residents and authorities alike are left wondering what the next steps will be in this developing situation.
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!
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