A waste transfer station in Herne Hill has been demolished following a huge fire, which took 100 firefighters and fifteen fire engines to bring under control.

The fire broke out on Shakespeare Road and engulfed the entire building, causing parts of it to collapse and heavy smoke in the area.

The blaze started in the early hours of September 8 and was eventually brought under control, but crews have remained on the scene throughout the weekend to ensure the fire was fully extinguished.

The Brigade's 999 Control Officers received 27 calls related to the incident, with the initial call made at 2.09am on September 8.

No injuries were reported.

As a precautionary measure, twelve gas cylinders were safely removed, as some can explode when exposed to heat.

In order to access the remaining areas with fire, a controlled demolition of the building was planned for the evening of September 10.

The fire brigade warned that this demolition may generate increased smoke and fire temporarily and residents were advised to keep their windows and doors closed to minimize exposure.

Two 32-metre turntable ladders were used as water towers to combat the flames from a height.

Fire crews from several nearby stations, including Brixton, Clapham, West Norwood, and Peckham, have been present throughout the incident and will continue to monitor the site in the days to come.

The cause of the fire is currently unknown and now under investigation.

A spokesperson for London Fire Brigade said: “Fifteen fire engines and around 100 firefighters have been tackling a fire at a waste transfer station on Shakespeare Road in Herne Hill.

“The whole of the building was alight and partially collapsed. There were no reports of any injuries.

“Twelve gas cylinders were removed to safety as a precaution as some cylinders can explode when exposed to heat.

“The fire was brought under control on the morning of Friday 8 September but crews have remained on scene, working throughout the weekend to fully extinguishing the fire.

“In order to gain access to the areas of fire that remain, a controlled demolition of the building will be taking place this evening (10 September).

“This may result in increased smoke and fire for a short amount of time.

“It may be difficult during the warm weather, but local residents are advised to continue to keep their windows and doors closed.

“Firefighters are working closely with partners and have been engaging with the local community and providing support where needed.

“Two 32-metre turntable ladders were used as water towers at the height of the blaze to tackle the flames from height.

“The Brigade's 999 Control Officers took 27 calls to the incident.

“The Brigade was called at 02.09am and the fire was under control by 07.02am.

“Fire crews from Brixton, Clapham, West Norwood, Peckham and surrounding fire stations have been in attendance and firefighters will remain on site over the coming days.

“The cause of the fire is under investigation.”