Emergency services dealt with a large industrial fire at the Llantrisant Recycling Centre in Rhondda Cynon Taf after receiving reports shortly after 2am on 16 July. South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) said crews left the site at about 10pm the same day after bringing the blaze under control.
Scale of the response
Firefighters described the incident as significant. The operation involved multiple appliances and specialist resources as crews worked to extinguish the blaze and make the area safe.
- Time called: shortly after 2am on 16 July
- Crews stood down: around 10pm on 16 July
- Amount of waste involved: approximately 1,500 tonnes
- Partner agencies: Natural Resources Wales, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and Public Health Wales
SWFRS confirmed the site no longer poses a risk to staff or the public and that any lingering smoke is minimal. They thanked local people for their cooperation while crews worked.
"The roads are expected to remain closed for some time,"
The comment came from local councillor Sarah Jane Davies, who provided information on road closures during the incident. Police and council teams had closed roads in the area to allow emergency services to work safely.
Local disruption and public advice
Residents living near the recycling centre were urged to keep windows and doors closed while the fire was being tackled. Members of the public were asked to avoid the area to prevent interference with emergency operations.
Road closures affected key routes around the site, including the stretch between Heol y Sarn and Ffordd Pritchard, and areas around Llantrisant Road and Heol Ddu. Local councillors and council services issued updates while the incident unfolded.
Equipment used at the scene
| Resource | Number |
|---|---|
| Fire engines | 8 |
| Water bowsers | 4 |
| Aerial ladder platform | 1 |
| Specialist equipment (including drones) | Deployed |
Many fires at waste sites can smoulder and release smoke for some time, which is why Public Health Wales and Natural Resources Wales were involved to assess and manage any health or environmental impacts. At the time crews left the site, officials said any smoke remaining was minimal.
What this means for local people
Although the immediate danger has passed, the incident underlines the potential disruption posed by large fires at industrial and waste sites. Residents who were affected have been advised to follow council and public health guidance if they experience smoke-related symptoms.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and partner agencies are expected to continue monitoring the site and provide updates if further action is needed. Anyone with concerns about air quality or access in the area should check local authority channels for the latest information.
If you witnessed the incident or have relevant information, please follow official guidance on reporting rather than sharing unverified details which could hamper emergency work.
