Firefighters are tackling a large blaze that has engulfed two bungalows on Tangmere Drive in Castle Vale, Birmingham, causing severe damage to both properties. The fire broke out this afternoon (August 13), sending thick black smoke billowing into the sky.
Emergency services, including five fire engines, police vehicles, and ambulances, rushed to the scene. Police have closed the road at both ends, and bus services in the area are being diverted.
Emergency Response and Witness Account
Our reporter at the scene, Nick Horner, described the situation: "A property fire has ripped through two bungalows in Tangmere Drive in Castle Vale. There are multiple emergency services on the scene with police blocking off the road at either end."
Horner noted that five fire engines were present, along with unmarked police cars with blue lights flashing. Ambulance vehicles were initially at the scene but have since departed.
Bus Diversions and Official Statements
National Express has confirmed that bus services 67 and 71 are being diverted in both directions via Turnhouse Road and Farnborough Road due to the incident. A spokesperson for National Express said: "Tangmere Drive, Castle Vale. 67 and 71 services diverting in both directions via Turnhouse Road and Farnborough Road due to an incident."
West Midlands Fire Service has been contacted for comment, but no official statement has been released yet.
Ongoing Incident and Community Impact
The fire has severely damaged the two bungalows, and firefighters continue to battle the inferno. The cause of the fire is not yet known, and it remains an active incident. Further updates are expected as the situation develops.
