Major Blaze Erupts in Southall Industrial Estate
A significant fire has engulfed a warehouse in Southall, West London, this morning, Tuesday, November 25, prompting a large-scale emergency response. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) was called to the scene on Bridge Road at around 9am, where approximately 150 firefighters are currently battling the intense blaze.
Road Closures and Transport Disruption
The fire is causing severe traffic disruption across the area. Authorities have been forced to implement a full road closure on Bridge Road in both directions between Merrick Road and the industrial park. This has resulted in significant congestion, with traffic backing up from Merrick Road to Norwood Road towards Southall station.
Public transport has also been affected. Transport for London (TfL) has diverted the 427 bus route, with the service now terminating early at Hamilton Road. As a result, bus stops from Southall Broadway to Bridge Road and The Green are not being served. Commuters are strongly advised to allow extra time for their journeys and to avoid the area if possible.
Scale of the Fire and Safety Warnings
The fire is believed to have started in Charles House, a two-storey building that houses a wholesale market and several industrial units. The LFB has reported that around three-quarters of the building is alight, with thick, dark smoke billowing across the West London skyline.
Local residents reported hearing what sounded like explosions coming from the building. One witness initially mistook the noises for fireworks before realising the severity of the situation. Due to the vast amount of smoke, officials have urged people living nearby to keep their windows and doors closed as a precaution.
Background on the Affected Building
Charles House is described as a major wholesale market, often promoted as one of the UK's largest platforms for buying and selling. The units within the building typically trade in a wide range of goods, including electronics, phone accessories, toys, and food items. The market has a history of controversy, having been subject to multiple raids and seizures of counterfeit goods in previous years.
Fire crews remain on the scene working to bring the substantial fire under control.
