AN “avoid the area” alert has been issued as firefighters tackle a large, well-developed blaze at a Scottish factory.
Emergency services have urged people living near Cowie, outside Stirling, to close their windows as crews battle a blaze at a factory in the town.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said seven appliances had been sent to Station Road late on Sunday night.
Local MSP Evelyn Tweed said the "significant" fire was at the WestFraser (Norbord) factory, where chipboard is manufactured.
She added that she had spoken to the fire service and they "are advising all residents affected by smoke to remain in their homes, do not venture out at this time, keep all windows and doors closed, including window vents".
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “There is a large fire in Cowie, people are asked to avoid the area if possible.
“Residents of Cowie should keep their windows closed.”
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said: “We are in attendance at a well-developed fire within a factory in the town of Cowie, near Stirling.
“Operations Control has mobilised seven appliances to the town's Station Road, where firefighters remain working to extinguish a well-developed fire.
“People living within Cowie are asked to avoid the area and to keep windows and doors closed.”
WestFraser (Europe) Ltd was fined £1.1 million in February over safety failures at the factory. In 2022, it was fined more than £2m after an employee died from serious burns.
Update:
On Monday morning, Tweed issued an update saying: "I understand that last night's fire was brought under control around 5am. There were no reported injuries.
"Smoke has largely dispersed in the area. However, emergency services will remain at the scene for a period this morning.
"I realise there are ongoing concerns regarding lack of clarity on protocols in such situations and concern about potential toxins from the fire. My office have made contact with the necessary parties this morning on these matters and I will update on this as soon as possible."
