Emergency Services Battle Large Scrap Metal Fire at Derry Recycling Site

Emergency services are currently working to bring a significant fire under control at a recycling plant in Derry. The blaze, which broke out on Monday afternoon, involves a massive quantity of scrap metal, prompting warnings for local residents to protect themselves from substantial smoke levels.

Incident Overview at Campsie Industrial Estate

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) responded to a call at 2:58 p.m. On Monday, April 6, 2026, regarding a fire at a recycling site located on Clooney Road. The blaze is concentrated in approximately 700 to 800 tonnes of scrap metal within the Campsie Industrial Estate.

Due to the nature of the materials burning, the fire has produced a substantial amount of smoke, leading authorities to issue urgent safety advice to the surrounding community.

Large-Scale Emergency Response

The scale of the incident required a coordinated effort from multiple stations to prevent the fire from escalating. According to the NIFRS, 51 firefighters are currently on-site working to extinguish the flames.

The deployment includes:

• Six fire appliances from Crescent Link, Limavady, Coleraine, Ballymoney, and Maghera fire stations.
• Water tenders from Dungiven and Pomeroy fire stations.
• A command support unit from the Strabane fire station.

Public Health and Safety Warnings

Police and fire officials have urged local residents and business owners in the vicinity of Clooney Road to maintain their windows and doors closed. This precaution is necessary to minimize exposure to the heavy smoke drifting from the recycling site.

Key Takeaways of the Incident

• Location: Recycling site, Campsie Industrial Estate, Clooney Road, Derry.
• Material Involved: 700 to 800 tonnes of scrap metal.
• Personnel: 51 firefighters from various NIFRS stations.
• Public Advice: Close all windows and doors due to smoke levels.
• Call Time: 2:58 p.m. On Monday, April 6, 2026.

Current Status

Firefighters remain at the scene, focusing their efforts on bringing the blaze under control and ensuring the fire does not spread further across the industrial estate. There have been no reported casualties at this time.