Investigation into Kronospan fire ongoing over two years after incident

A North Wales MS has again questioned the progress of an inquiry report into the cause of a large fire at a factory in Wrexham.

In January 2020, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service were called to a blaze at Kronospan in Chirk. The incident, at the factory’s log yard, involved a quantity of logs and wood chip material.

It took five days to dampen down the fire and during that time residents were urged to keep their windows and doors closed due to smoke in the area. A local primary school also made the decision to keep its pupils inside during break time.

Two years on from the devastating fire at Kronospan, Plaid Cymru’s North Wales MS has asked about the inquiry into the blaze – repeating his call a year ago.

Llyr Gruffydd, Plaid Cymru’s regional MS, said: “The fire took place two years ago in January 2020 and the initial report was due back in April 2020. Of course the Covid pandemic hit us in the meantime and I completely understand why resources and officers were diverted to dealing with that emergency.

“However, I think the people of Chirk and all those affected by the fire and ongoing pollution problems do deserve to know what is happening and it’s important that we get an update on the inquiry and when it is likely to report back. Since the fire, I have had continual updates from local residents about pollution affecting them that emanates from the plant.

“So this needs resolving and, despite the ongoing pressures on staff due to the pandemic, I hope we can get an answer from Wrexham Council about when they expect the report into the fire is likely to see the light of day.”

Wrexham.com put the question to Wrexham Council who told us, “The matters in relation to activity undertaken prior, during and after the fire by Kronospan is still subject to an investigation by Public Protection Officers.

“The demands of the Covid pandemic on the Service in addition to the impact on Kronospan to provide information and assist Officers during 2020 caused by reduced activity on site has delayed the investigation.”

“The site benefits from an environmental permit and as such the investigation relates to potential breaches of permit conditions. As such the matter will follow relevant legal processes and consideration. The matter is yet to be concluded.”