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A major fire on a cargo ship at Albert Dock in Hull has led to road closures, shop shutdowns, and evacuations as emergency services battle the blaze. Humberside Fire and Rescue was called to the scene at around 10:20 BST after flames broke out in a cargo hold containing 3,500 tonnes of scrap metal on the vessel, identified as the Altay, a bulk carrier docked in the city since 23 June.
Five fire engines, an aerial platform, and specialist marine response crews are tackling the "deep-seated" fire, which is expected to be a prolonged operation continuing into the night. Incident commander Dominic Purchon said the blaze is contained within the vessel, with crews removing cargo to extinguish it on the dockside while spraying water into the hold. All crew members on board have been accounted for, and no injuries have been reported.
The fire has caused significant disruption, with thick smoke spreading across Hull’s city centre, prompting warnings for residents and businesses to keep windows and doors closed due to the strong smell of burning rubber. Roads including English Street, Wellington Street, Humber Dock, Kingston Retail Park, the Marina, and Jackson Street have been closed, while Kingston Retail Park shops and Hull’s Combined Court and Magistrates’ Court have been temporarily shut. Court cases have been adjourned or moved online, and The Big Malarkey Festival in East Park was evacuated as a precaution.
Local residents and workers described the scene. Toni Wheat, who lives on a boat in Hull Marina, reported seeing a “big ball of flames and smoke” when the fire started, adding that the smell has permeated her home despite closed windows. Brian Worship, a local worker, likened the smell to a bonfire but expressed concern about potential health risks. BBC reporter Dale Baxter noted an “enormous plume of smoke” emanating from the ship, with the smell affecting the city centre.
Associated British Ports, which operates Albert Dock, is assisting the fire service. Humberside Police and HM Coastguard are also on the scene. Once the fire is extinguished, specialist investigators will determine its cause. The public is urged to avoid the area and follow official updates.
