The huge blaze in Elvington today is now out.
As we reported earlier, multiple fire crews were sent to the incident at the Elvington Industrial Estate at 4.44am.
Nearby residents were told to close doors and windows as acrid smoke from the blaze drifted over the area.
At its height, eight fire appliances, an aerial ladder platform and a water bowser were at the fire.
This lunchtime (Tuesday) the fire is out. Police and a fire crew remain on the scene.
Happily, no one has been hurt. Access to the area was restricted by the police for several hours.
The building affected – belonging to education provider Ad Astra – has been gutted by the fire.
Most of the windows have been smashed by the heat, the roof is partially destroyed and buckled.
Thanks to the work of firefighters in containing the fire, other buildings close to Ad Astra were saved from the flames.
Firefighters on scene say the investigation into the cause of the fire, at this stage unknown, is well underway. Police are assisting fire crews.
Firefighters on an aerial platform have been inspecting the charred remains of the industrial unit as part of their investigations.
Neighbours described the smell of smoke as “horrendous” at the height of the blaze.
Ad Astra – Broadening Horizons works with young people at Key Stage 3 and 4 and post-16 across North Yorkshire.
It is an alternative education provider for York Learning, North Yorkshire Council, Danesgate School and East Riding of Yorkshire Council.
The team say on their website: “We’ve established a distinctive learning environment designed to cater to the unique needs of even the most disengaged young individuals.”
