Two people have been hospitalized but the authorities say there is “no nuclear risk”
A “significant fire” has broken out at a nuclear submarine shipyard in northwest England, injuring two people, local authorities have said, stressing that there is no risk of a nuclear disaster.
Police said the incident happened at around 12:30am on Wednesday at the shipbuilding facility of defense contractor BAE Systems in Barrow-in-Furness. Two people were reportedly taken to the hospital after suffering what appeared to be smoke inhalation.
“There is no nuclear risk. However, people living nearby are advised to remain indoors whilst emergency services respond to the incident and keep doors and windows closed,” the police said, noting that people in the area affected by the fire have been evacuated and accounted for.
Photos and videos posted on social media show what appears to be a plume of smoke rising from inside the shipbuilding facility.
The UK is currently boosting its nuclear submarine fleet and plans to introduce four new Dreadnought-class ballistic missile submarines into service in the 2030s. This type of vessel is expected to replace the Vanguard class, and like its predecessor, will carry missiles that can be armed with a nuclear warhead.
READ MORE: UK nuclear submarine barely avoids disaster – The Sun
In addition, in September the UK pledged £4 billion ($5.2 billion) to develop SSN-AUKUS nuclear-powered submarines, construction of which will take place in Barrow-in-Furness.
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