Huge fire breaks out in Brighton as smoke engulfs seaside city's skyline

Fire

A huge fire has broken out in Brighton

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ROSAMOJO/X

Bill Bowkett

By Bill Bowkett, 


Published: 28/04/2026

- 13:57

Updated: 28/04/2026

- 15:11

Locals have been told to close windows

People have been warned to avoid an area of Brighton as firefighters battle a large blaze at a recycling plant.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service has also told residents in the seaside to close windows and doors as the blaze engulfs "multiple plastic wheelie bins".


It is believed the fire is happening at the site run by Veolia Enviromental Services in Whitehawk.

A plume of smoke billowing over the recycling centre off Wilson Avenue can be seen for miles around.

The brigade was called just after 1pm and three fire engines are at the scene.

At least 25 999 calls have been made to the brigade's control centre.

Crews are expected to be in the area for several hours.

Sky

Residents have been told their windows and doors

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ROSAMOJO/X

A spokesman for the force said: "We can confirm there is a fire involving multiple plastic wheelie bins.

"Firefighters are using two main jets and firefighting foam, as well as two breathing apparatus.

"Three fire engines are now at the scene.

"There are no reports of injuries."

Last September, another recycling plant in Brighton was set alight due to a lithium-ion battery catching fire.