FIREFIGHTERS are tackling a significant industrial fire at a commercial unit on Pontardawe Road. Emergency services, including police and multiple fire engines, were called to the scene on Monday afternoon. Authorities have advised motorists to avoid the area, while local residents are being urged to keep windows and doors shut due to the smoke.
A spokesperson for South Wales Police said:
“South Wales Fire and Rescue officers have attended the scene of an incident in Pontardawe. They are advising all local residents to keep doors and windows closed.”
Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service also issued a statement:
“Several crews are currently attending an industrial fire on Pontardawe Road in Pontardawe. Please avoid the area and find alternative routes for your journey. Residents are advised to keep doors and windows closed.”
Fire crews remain at scene
At 9:11pm, the fire service confirmed that the incident had been scaled back, but five fire engines remain on-site. A spokeswoman said that while some crews have returned to their stations, the fire is still being dealt with.
Significant response earlier in the evening
At its height, the operation involved 11 fire engines, five water bowsers, and an aerial ladder platform. Fire crews from Pontardawe, Amman Valley, Ammanford, Port Talbot, Morriston, and Neath, supported by South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, were all in attendance.
Road closures
A section of Pontardawe Road (A474) is closed in both directions between Gwaun Cae Gurwen and Garth (Pontardawe). Traffic monitoring service Inrix reported heavy congestion in the area due to fire service activity.
Industrial estate location
The fire broke out at a commercial property on an industrial estate along Pontardawe Road, located between Pontardawe and Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen.
Advice to the public
Authorities continue to stress the importance of avoiding the area and keeping doors and windows closed due to potential smoke inhalation risks. Updates will follow as the situation develops.
