A substantial fire broke out on Tuesday evening at a waste processing facility on Landman Way, Deptford, drawing a large emergency response and producing plumes of smoke visible for miles across south‑east London.
Emergency response and scale of the blaze
London Fire Brigade (LFB) said crews were first called shortly before 8pm and that around 15 fire engines and roughly 100 firefighters were working to bring the incident under control. The blaze involves an estimated 50 tonnes of household waste stored on site, according to the Brigade.
"Crews are working hard in difficult conditions to bring the fire under control. One of the Brigade’s 32m ladders and a 64m ladder are both being used as a water towers to tackle the flames from above. A large amount of smoke is being produced by the incident. Local residents should keep doors and windows closed where possible."
The Brigade confirmed fire appliances from East Greenwich, Old Kent Road and Deptford stations, alongside crews from neighbouring fire stations, were in attendance. A 32‑metre turntable ladder and a 64‑metre turntable ladder were deployed as elevated water towers to tackle the flames from above.
Impact on local residents and rail services
Videos shared online show thick smoke and visible flames as people recorded the blaze from nearby streets and trains. Residents were advised to keep windows and doors shut while the smoke persisted.
National Rail reported lines between New Cross and London Bridge were blocked and warned passengers services on affected routes could be cancelled or delayed. Services between London Blackfriars and East Croydon have been diverted and will not call at London Bridge; passengers on that corridor were told to allow an extra 30 minutes for journeys. Thameslink trains running on the diversion route were expected to be delayed by at least 15 minutes, with disruption anticipated until the end of the day.
What is known so far
The cause of the fire has not been established. The Brigade said it had received more than 160 emergency calls reporting the incident. LFB and partner blue‑light services remain at the scene working to bring the situation under control.
- First calls received just before 8pm (1958–1959).
- Approximately 15 fire appliances and about 100 firefighters in attendance.
- About 50 tonnes of household waste involved in the fire.
- Rail services into London Bridge affected between New Cross and London Bridge; alternative routes advised.
- Residents urged to keep doors and windows closed due to smoke.
Local people gathered to film the blaze; images circulating on social media show smoke columns rising above the industrial estate on the border of Bermondsey and north Lewisham. Passengers on trains through the area reported seeing the flames from carriages.
Practical information for residents and travellers
If you live near Landman Way or in neighbouring streets, follow London Fire Brigade advice and keep windows and doors closed until authorities confirm the smoke has cleared. Those with respiratory conditions should take particular care and consider moving to a location with cleaner air if you feel unwell.
Commuters should check National Rail and Thameslink updates before travelling. Expect continued delays on routes through New Cross and London Bridge and allow extra time for journeys while services are being diverted.
WE NEWS will update this report as officials release further information, including any safety advisories, the cause of the blaze and details on when rail services will return to normal.
| Item | Reported figure |
|---|---|
| Fire engines | 15 |
| Firefighters | ~100 |
| Waste involved | 50 tonnes |
| Ladders/water towers used | 32m and 64m |
Local authorities and the London Fire Brigade are continuing operations. Any residents impacted by smoke or who witness unfolding changes to the situation should follow official channels for the latest safety guidance.
