A significant fire broke out at the BAE Systems nuclear submarine shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness early Wednesday morning, prompting emergency services to respond shortly after 00:44 GMT. Two individuals were hospitalized due to suspected smoke inhalation but have since been released, and all personnel are accounted for.
Cumbria Police confirmed there was “no nuclear risk” associated with the incident, and an investigation into the fire’s cause is underway. The Devonshire Dock Hall, the facility’s main building, was evacuated overnight as firefighters tackled the blaze.
Stuart Hook from Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service reported that 15 fire appliances were deployed to combat the fire, which has now been extinguished. He noted that many firefighters were fatigued but safe.
Residents living nearby reported seeing thick black smoke rising from the site. David Harris, a local resident, expressed concern about the fire, especially given the materials used in submarine construction. Another neighbor, Donna Butler, described the smoke as “really thick,” while Jeff Holt, a mile away from the shipyard, could smell the burning and smoke upon stepping outside.
On Wednesday morning, a metallic odor lingered in the air, and the building showed visible smoke damage. Non-essential staff at the Devonshire Dock Hall have been advised to work from home, while others should attend as usual, checking an employee hotline for updates.
The Devonshire Dock Hall, covering six acres, is the second-largest indoor shipbuilding complex in Europe and has been instrumental in constructing the UK’s Vanguard and Dreadnought-class submarines. As investigations continue, nearby roads, including those at Michaelson Bridge, are expected to reopen.