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An investigation is underway after a major fire at a recycling factory in Rhymney.

The fire broke out at Dragon Recycling Solutions on the Heads of the Valley Industrial Estate on Saturday, March 19.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) sent three aerial platforms, two water bowsers and eight appliances to a recycling factory on the estate at 1.30am on Saturday, March 19. It said it received 96 calls from the public.

According to reports on social media, residents reported several loud bangs and ‘popping’ as the blaze took hold.

The fire itself wasn’t extinguished until around 6am on Sunday.

In a statement, SWFRS said: “Multiple crews from various Stations across South Wales attended the scene and were faced with a large, well-developed fire.

“Crews worked alongside partner agencies and emergency service colleagues to strategize and secure the area. Firefighters used specialist equipment including water bowsers and aerial ladder platforms to extinguish the fire.

“Local residents were asked to keep windows and doors closed as a safety precaution due to the accumulation of smoke in the area. This measure has now been lifted.

“A fire investigation will take place on Monday, March 21.”

In a statement, National Resources Wales (NRW) said: “NRW assisted SWFRS at the fire at Dragon Recycling Solutions, Rhymney, on Saturday and will continue to monitor the impacts of the incident. 

“NRW officers will inspect the site when it is safe to do so. River water samples have been sent for analysis as a precautionary measure.”

Dragons Recycling Solutions told Caerphilly Observer it is working closely with the police and fire services and will release a statement in due course.