Huge fire on cargo ship sends smoke and ‘burning plastic’ smell billowing into city centre

A cargo ship caught fire while moored at Hull’s Albert Dock this morning.

Thick smoke could be seen rising from the large container vessel, which was carrying scrap metal.

No injuries have been reported from the blaze, which is believed to have originated in the ship’s cargo hold.

According to shipping tracker VesselFinder, the affected ship was the Altay, which arrived in Hull on June 23.

The bulk carrier was built in 2006 and is 120 by 17 metres.

It sails under the flag of the Marshall islands.

Several local shops and businesses have had to close due to the incident.

Tina Riches, who manages HWM Van Hire, said she was forced to shut her business after hearing a warning alarm at the port.

She told the BBC: ‘We’ve had to contact our customers that they won’t be able to get here and the police say we might have to be evacuated.’

Cases and hearings were also suspended at Hull Combined Court and Hull Magistrates’ Court following the blaze.

HM Courts and Tribunals Service said: ‘Cases due to be heard at the court have either been adjourned or moved online.

‘We will reschedule any adjourned hearings as soon as possible.’

Humberside fire and rescue said in a statement: ‘We are attending a fire onboard a cargo ship alongside at Albert Dock in Hull. Smoke from the incident may be affecting the A63/Daltry St area drivers are advised to take caution.’

Port operator Associated British Ports said: ‘We are currently aware of a fire on a vessel in the location of a tenanted area, and we are assisting the fire service with the response.’

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