Investigation launched into commercial unit blaze

West Midlands fire investigators are working to establish the cause of a severe fire in Wolverhampton on Friday night (September 8), which broke out at a car parts and breakers site.

More than sixty firefighters and 12 fire engines were called to Parkside Industrial Estate, to tackle the blaze at a large commercial unit measuring 20 metres by 30 metres.

The corrugated metal roof had collapsed, meaning crews were unable to enter parts of the building because it was too dangerous. There were also several propane cylinders, tyres and two forklift trucks on site.

With initial calls coming in at 8:40pm, the fire was mostly out by 10.30pm and West Midlands Fire Service reduced the number of resources at the scene.

Several main jets were used to douse the flames, and a hydraulic aerial platform was used to deliver water from above. A drone was also deployed, to assist operational decision making on the ground.

There was no damage or fire spread to nearby buildings or a communications mast.