Falmouth Compost Site Fire


In an effort to help tackle the massive fire at Higher Kergilliack Farm compost site near Falmouth in Cornwall local business M&M Plant, a plant and machinery company, has joined forces with firefighters. The fire, which has been burning since Friday, has demanded the attention of up to 40 firefighters at a time as they work tirelessly to bring the blaze under control. With thick smoke and smouldering waste, local authorities have advised nearby residents to keep their doors and windows closed due to health concerns from the smoke.

The compost site fire has presented an enormous challenge, particularly because the seat of the fire is deep within the compost pile. As the fire smoulders internally, it has proven difficult to fully extinguish, despite the best efforts of fire crews. This is where M&M Plant has stepped in, playing a critical role in aiding the firefighting and clean-up operations.

As a trusted local business, M&M Plant has long been known for providing specialist machinery and plant hire services to the construction and groundworks industries. Their expertise in handling heavy machinery has made them an important part of the effort to clear the debris and manage the waste left in the wake of the fire.

M&M Plant’s powerful machinery is being used to assist the firefighters by moving large quantities of compost and debris, allowing the crews to access and tackle the fire more effectively. Removing the smouldering compost is essential not only to put out the fire but also to prevent reignition, which could extend the duration of the crisis. With their heavy-duty equipment, M&M Plant has been instrumental in helping the emergency services manage this difficult situation.

The fire at Higher Kergilliack Farm has raised concerns for local residents, who have been advised by local authorities to keep doors and windows shut due to the lingering smoke. The Environment Agency has stepped in, advising the site to cease accepting new waste while the fire remains active.

Although the fire is located on a compost tip, the smoke and fumes have led to growing concerns over air quality, particularly for vulnerable residents. M&M Plant’s ability to swiftly remove the waste is not only critical for extinguishing the fire but also for mitigating these environmental impacts.

The efforts of everyone in the local area demonstrate the importance of local businesses in times of crisis. Their quick mobilisation and ability to offer both machinery, help and expertise have significantly contributed to the firefighting effort. By clearing the site and enabling firefighters to reach the heart of the blaze, M&M Plant is helping to shorten the recovery process and reduce the long-term environmental impact.