Clean-up continues at site of battery fire 30/4/25
Following the incident at West Byrehill, Kilwinning, on 9 April, 2025, the council has been working with SEPA, the regulatory body which has responsibility for the regulation and enforcement of the site, alongside the landowner, Scottish Fire and Rescue (SFRS), Police Scotland and other partners.
Partners have been liaising with the landowner who recently provided an update regarding the measures in place for the ongoing safety of the site and surrounding area, and on plans regarding the removal and disposal of the battery material.
The landowner has confirmed that a range of safety measures are now in place, including round-the-clock security, regular thermal imaging and damping of material. The landowner has undertaken these measures notwithstanding the batteries remaining the property of Fenix Battery Recycling Ltd and under the control and responsibility of their liquidator.We have also been advised that almost all battery material ejected from the site has now been collected with an email address set up by the landowner and details communicated to local residents who can make contact for any remaining material.
The landowner continues to progress plans with SEPA and other partners regarding the removal of all battery material from the site and disposal at a licensed location.
–North Ayrshire Council
Frequently Asked Questions 15/4/25
What is the current situation regarding the fire at West Byrehill Industrial Estate, Kilwinning, which took place on Wednesday 9 April 2025?
The fire has been extinguished, dampened down and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is no longer at the scene.
Seed Environmental Ltd has been appointed on behalf of the land owners to address issues at the West Byrehill site. North Ayrshire Council gave this update on Friday 11 April:
What to do if you feel unwell?
If you feel unwell, please contact your GP or call NHS 24 on 111.
What can happen if I breathed in the smoke during the incident?
Smoke may irritate air passages, skin and eyes. This could result in coughing and wheezing, breathlessness and chest pain. For those residents with pre-existing heart and repository conditions, such as asthma please make sure you carry any necessary medication or inhalers at all times. Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen, by contacting their GP or NHS 24.
What symptoms might I experience?
Symptoms might include:
- Irritation of the eyes, conjunctivitis
- Sore throat, cough, tightness of chest
- Headaches
Can I use my garden as normal?
As a precautionary measure, please wipe down any garden furniture, equipment and children’s play areas and toys before using.
Advice is currently not to touch or pick up any batteries or fire debris from your garden, driveway or surrounding areas to your property. Residents should await clearance by Seed Environmental Ltd of any debris caused by the incident. If required, residents can contact them direct by email regarding collection: kilwinning@seedenvironmental.co.uk
Can I drink my water?
Scottish Water advise that if your water is discoloured, run your cold water tap for 10 to 15 minutes or until it runs clear. If you have any concerns about your water quality, please contact Scottish Water on 0800 0778 778.
Please continue to monitor for regular updates via emergency services, Cunninghame Housing Association and North Ayrshire Council.