Fire in Evercreech
A fire broke out in a disused factory in the village of Evercreech just after 1pm this afternoon.
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service are attending. The Leveller understands that five fire engines are at the blaze.
Local councillor Barry O’Leary has expressed his disappointment. He told us he was surprised that the site owners had not been informed of the fire by their security people. He explained that discussions with the owners had made it clear that the site needed to be proactively managed.
The former Greencore site used to employ 400 people. The site has been the subject of several planning applications none of which has been granted permission. The factory site contains an old creamery and mill which are regarded locally as heritage assets. These were to be preserved as part of any future development. It is not clear at this stage if these are the buildings where the fire broke out.
Mendip District Council officers are on site assessing the impact and will follow up with the owners.
Picture credit: Rosie Warham