Emergency services were called to the blaze at AWD Group’s yard on Dock Road yesterday (30 April 2026), where approximately 200 tonnes of commercial waste caught fire, prompting a multi-agency response.
According to Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, crews from across the region – including Port Talbot, Neath, Swansea and Llanelli – have been working alongside colleagues from South Wales Fire and Rescue Service to tackle the incident.
Firefighters continued operations overnight, making “steady progress” in containing the blaze. Crews remain on site damping down and monitoring remaining hotspots.
Road closures were implemented to allow emergency access, with residents advised to keep windows and doors closed where smoke is present.
Neath Port Talbot Council confirmed the incident is now entering a controlled phase.
In a statement, the council said: “The incident is now entering a controlled phase and is deescalating.
“Fire crews will remain on scene for the foreseeable future to continue damping down and to manage any remaining hotspots.”
Air quality monitoring has been carried out in areas affected by the smoke plume, with public health advice remaining in place for nearby communities.
The council added that people should keep windows and doors closed while smoke is present and seek medical advice if they feel unwell.
Environmental regulators have also been involved in the response. Officers from Natural Resources Wales have been on site providing specialist guidance and monitoring potential impacts.
Initial checks have confirmed that firefighting water runoff has not polluted the nearby River Afan.
Transport routes affected by the incident have largely reopened, including the A4241 Afan Way dual carriageway, although a nearby footpath and cycleway remain closed.
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