Homes evacuated and around 100 residents use rest centre after huge fire erupts near Pittodrie in Aberdeen

Dozens of homes have been evacuated and almost 100 people have utilised an emergency rest centre after a huge fire erupted near Pittodrie stadium in Aberdeen.

Emergency services were called to Merkland Road East at around 8am on Wednesday morning.

Pictures showed plumes of smoke filling the sky with firefighters at the scene near a car garage.

There were no reports of any casualties as police closed Merkland Road East, Ardarroch Road and Pittodrie Street.

Emergency services services were called to Merkland Road East at around 8am on Wednesday morning. STV News

Seven fire appliances were sent to the scene with four still in attendance after 1.30pm on Wednesday.

The public have been urged to avoid the area as nearby properties were evacuated.

Fire crews urged properties within the area to prepare for electricity and gas supplies to be shut off and advised windows and doors should be closed.

Aberdeen City Council said: “About 95 people so far today have used the rest centre set up by the council at Aberdeen Sports Village as a result of the fire in Merkland Road East.

“The people attending the rest centre have included adults and children. Pets including dogs and cats have also been accommodated at the rest centre.

“Only people staying in properties who police have advised to evacuate can use the rest centre.

“If you live in a neighbouring street and have not been advised to evacuate, you can return to your home.

“Please be aware parts of Merkland Road East and Ardarroch Road continue to have no vehicle access.

“Aberdeen City Council is in the process of organising a hot meal and securing emergency overnight accommodation in case they are needed for evacuated residents.”

Andrew Wright, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service area commander, and local senior officer for Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire and Moray, said: “We were alerted at 8.02am on Wednesday, January 22, to reports of a commercial building fire at Merkland Road East, Aberdeen.

“Currently there are four appliances on scene at a car garage and firefighters are working to contain the fire and reduce fire spread.

“There are no reports of any casualties.

“Residents should be aware that there is no access to surrounding properties.

“Electricity and gas supplies may be shut off for prolonged periods of time.

“Properties within the area should keep windows and doors closed.”