AN investigation is ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding a major fire in Kilwinning.

It comes after an update was provided on the Fenix battery recycling plant fire which erupted on Byrehill Place on Monday, April 8.

The fire was eventually brought under control after several days, but not before it caused considerable concern and chaos across the neighbourhood.

At a full council meeting last week, North Coast councillor Todd Ferguson sought an update on the fire from cabinet member Alan Hill.

Cllr Hill said: “Following the serious fire incident at the Fenix battery recycling plant last month, and the prompt emergency services response, the incident is now in what is termed the recovery phase. 

“A multi-agency recovery group, chaired by the executive director (for housing and communities), has met on a regular basis to assess the consequences of the incident, consider appropriate recovery planning and monitor progress by those responsible for the site. 

“This work sits alongside Scottish Fire and Rescue’s ongoing investigation of the incident."

Cllr Hill also said that the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) have served two enforcement notices on May 13, instructing Fenix to move all batteries both damaged and fire damaged from the site.

He added: "A notice under Section 29 of the Building (Scotland) Act has been served on the owners of the property instructing them to make the building safe and the site is now fully in their control to proceed as required, whilst ensuring all statutory requirements are being met. 

“The owner has appointed specialist contractors who are at present preparing proposals for the waste removal and demolition phase. Currently the site has 24-hour security, and dust mitigation equipment has been deployed for use as and when required. 

“The work on site is likely to be ongoing for some time, and the current multi-agency approach to engaging with the site owner and their representatives will continue as required, with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency playing a key regulatory role.”

Cllr Ferguson raised further concern about fire safety given the increasing number of applications for battery energy storage systems.

He said it was important sites like these were scrutinised carefully.