Firefighters who have been tackling a blaze for more than 24 hours have revealed that they were warned about the potential fire risk at the former recycling plant in Sunderland.
It is still not known what caused the fire but Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue have confirmed that it is expected to take another two or three days to put it out.
Businesses in the surrounding the area have been affected. A bar owner told SR News reporters that the thick smoke has cause customers to leave the premises.
At a press conference today lead firefighter, Steve Graham, revealed that emergency services already knew about the risk the derelict recycling plant posed.
He also advised the public to stay away from the area.
Lib Dem cllr Niall Hodson is concerned that Sunderland city council did not take measures to prevent a future happening.
It is expected take another two or three days to put out the fire. the salvation army have been delivering food and drinks to firefighters on the scene.