Firefighters have cautioned the public to steer clear of a certain vicinity on Wednesday morning in the wake of a fire outbreak at a recycling center. Residents in and around Moreton Valence, located just south of Gloucester, were advised to shut their doors and windows as a precaution against the smoke. Additionally, drivers were urged to avoid using the A38 road leading in and out of the cathedral city and instead opt for alternate routes further north.
The Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service issued a statement mentioning their current presence at Smith’s recycling center in Moreton Valence. They recommended people to avoid the A38 heading towards Moreton Valence due to smoke in the area. Furthermore, residents in the vicinity were advised to keep their windows and doors closed for safety.
The Mirror reached out to Smith’s Gloucester, the operator of the waste management site, for a response. Details regarding the fire incident at the recycling center in Moreton Valence are limited at this point in time. Reports indicate thick smoke spreading across south Gloucester and parts of rural Gloucestershire, prompting residents to take precautions by sealing their residences.
Drivers are advised to refrain from using the A38 in south Gloucester and extending as far as Whitminster. Moreton Valence, a quaint village situated east of the River Severn, boasts a small population of approximately 165 residents and is known for its historical significance. The village’s architecture predominantly features Cotswold limestone, reflecting the local county’s characteristic style.
RAF Moreton Valence, operational from November 1939 to July 1962, once stood in the area. Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service has urged drivers to avoid the A38 both inbound and outbound from Moreton Valence during firefighting operations. Despite the limited alternative routes in the rural setting, motorists can utilize junction 11a on the adjacent M5 to access parts of Gloucester.
Southbound traffic is advised to utilize local roads passing through Little Haresfield and Standish to reach destinations like Stonehouse, Stroud, and Whitminster. The fire department has confirmed that the ongoing blaze has affected the property of Smith’s Gloucester Ltd, a company specializing in construction and waste management services, with multiple sites including the one in Moreton Valence.
Smith’s website highlights its family-owned business ethos, emphasizing values such as hard work, teamwork, and dedication to customer service. The Mirror has sought comments from the company regarding the incident. Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service reiterated their advice for public safety in the area due to the ongoing situation at Smith’s recycling center in Moreton Valence.
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