UK
Two people taken to hospital after major fire at nuclear submarine shipyard in Cumbria
A significant fire has broken out at a nuclear submarine shipyard in Cumbria.
Videos and pictures posted on social media show flames and smoke billowing from BAE Systems in Barrow-in-Furness.
Two people were taken to hospital but Cumbria Police said there were no casualties after the fire broke out at around 12.30am on Wednesday.
The force said the response to the fire is ongoing and that people were evacuated from Devonshire Dock Hall.
It added there was no nuclear risk.
Cumbria Police also advised people living nearby to “remain indoors” and to “keep doors and windows closed”.
BAE Systems is one of the world’s biggest defence contractors.
It produces a huge array of military hardware and technology – including nuclear submarines, fighter jets, tanks and ships, as well as guns and ammunition.
It also builds type 26 frigates for the Royal Navy and makes electronic warfare systems for F-35 fighter jets.
Devonshire Dock Hall at the BAE systems facility in Barrow-in-Furness. File pic: Reuters
The company’s site in Barrow-in-Furness is where it constructs Astute and Dreadnought nuclear submarines for the Navy.
BAE Systems has built all but three of the Royal Navy’s nuclear submarines since 1963.
Cumbria Fire Service and the Ministry of Defence have not yet responded to Sky’s requests for comment.
In an update on Wednesday, police said: “Cumbria Fire and Rescue are likely to have appliances on site for much of the day”.
Read more from Sky News:
‘Mayhem’ as Spain floods kill at least 13
Boy, 11, named as child killed in primary school crash
Ambulance worker tried to kill boss with hammer
Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News
In April, an investigation was launched after an explosion at a different factory owned by BAE Systems.
No one was injured in the blast in Glascoed, Monmouthshire, South Wales.