Large plumes of smoke were seen rising out of a chemical plant after a huge blaze broke out at an industrial facility on Tuesday (August 9).

Emergency services were called to the former INEOS site on Seal Sands Road, Billingham at around 11.55am after thick black smoke clouds could be seen ascending over Billingham by concerned members of the public.

The site, which was closed after funding was pulled from INEOS last year, is under demolition, and it’s believed a fire broke out in one of the tanks.

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However, the cause of the fire is under investigation by Cleveland Fire and Rescue Service.

The fire brigade, who were first to the scene, have confirmed their attendance at the incident

During the incident, staff at the industrial estate and employees at nearby factories had to close their windows – and Seal Sands Road was closed by police officers.

A toxic risk minimal alarm could also be heard by those in Billingham.

The Northern Echo: Black smoke could be seen ascending over Billingham. Picture: NORTH EAST ALERTBlack smoke could be seen ascending over Billingham. Picture: NORTH EAST ALERT

A Cleveland Police spokesperson added: "Fire Brigade have extinguished and are remaining on site, no requirement for Cleveland Police to be there, Harbour police also been involved (no casualties)."

No injuries were sustained by any workers or emergency service workers during the incident – with the North East Ambulance Service confirming that they were at the scene in a small capacity, but let the fire service take the lead on the incident.

A North East Ambulance spokesperson added: “We were called at midday to attend an incident at Seal Sands. A duty officer is on scene, but no ambulance crews as there are no reported casualties or injuries.”

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