UPDATE: Daylight drone photos – investigation into huge explosion underway
A huge explosion has been felt across Swindon, with emergency services racing to a major incident on an industrial estate.
999 crews were called to the scene in Crompton Road, on Groundwell Industrial Estate, at around 7pm this evening (Wednesday).
An industrial building appears to have been completely destroyed in an explosion. Firefighters are still working to tackle the flames.
According to Google Maps, the property is a print company called PicsMe – a personalised picture gifts owned by ESP Group.
At least 12 fire crews from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service are in attendance, alongside more crews from Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire.
It’s not yet known if anyone’s been injured, however, there are around eight ambulances and multiple more ambulance cars at an RV point nearby.
Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance and Great Western Air Ambulance critical care cars are also there.
A large cordon is in place, with people kept hundreds of metres from the scene.
In a statement, a spokesperson for Wiltshire Police said: “We are currently dealing with a serious incident at Groundwell Industrial Estate, Crompton Road.
“An explosion has occurred in one of the industrial units and we are working alongside colleagues from the ambulance and fire service to make the area safe.
“A large cordon is in place and Cricklade Road between Queensfield and Thamesdown Drive is currently closed.
“Members of the public who live nearby should stay inside, close all windows and avoid the area of the industrial estate for their own safety.
“We are working to evacuate the immediate area of the industrial estate but there is no need for residential dwellings to evacuate.
“The A419 remains open.”
A Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We currently have 12 fire engines and specialist vehicles including an aerial ladder platform and water carriers on the scene.
“Firefighters are working to get the fire under control and further updates will be shared when we have them.”
