A firefighter tackling a major building fire in Bristol this morning described the scene as “like a warzone”. A dozen Avon Fire and Rescue Service fire engines were deployed to a major fire in Bannerleigh Road, Leigh Woods, at 6.40am today, Thursday, February 20, after flames took hold of a home.
Bridge Road, close to Clifton Suspension Bridge, was closed for the large-scale firefighting operation to take place and remains closed as of 11am today. The fire has now been extinguished but firefighters are expected to remain at the scene for some time to ensure that the building is safe. We are posting regular updates to our live blog here.
Firefighters also used two turntable ladders and a command unit due to the extent of the blaze. Avon and Somerset Constabulary are also at the scene. The B3129 Bridge Road is closed in both directions from the A369 Abbots Leigh Road to Burwalls Road and drivers should avoid the area.
A spokesperson for Avon Fire and Rescue Service said: “We were called at 6:40am to reports of a fire in a flat on Bannerleigh Road, Leigh Woods. At the height of the incident, 12 fire engines, two turntable ladders, and other specialist appliances were fighting the fire.
“The fire has now been extinguished and there have been no injuries reported. Firefighters remain on the scene ensuring the fire has not spread, and making the scene safe. The cause of the fire is currently unknown.”