Fire crews tackle blaze at a factory near A34 in Newtown in Birmingham

West Midlands Fire Service is tackling a blaze at a large factory in Princip Street in Newtown. Crews were called out at 6.48am this morning (Sunday, August 7).

People living nearby have been advised to keep their windows and doors closed to keep safe and avoid smoke entering their homes.

Nine fire engines and two hydraulic platforms were brought in to deal with the incident along with 50 fire fighters.

WMFS said they expect to be in attendance “for some time, managing the incident and making the scene safe”. They added: “There is a lot of smoke, so please keep all windows and doors in the area closed.”

The regional branch of the UK Health and Security Agency has also asked motorists to keep windows shut, turn off air conditioning and keep their air vents closed to avoid smoke inhalation.

Cyclists have also been advised to take caution by Commonwealth Games organisers who say that the cycling route to the Alexander Stadium has been diverted from Newtown Row, via Loveday Street, under St Chad’s Queensway, to Bath Street, Lower Loveday Street, Cliveland Street and Cecil Street, before rejoining the A34

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