A MAJOR fire is raging at a waste tip.

The blaze erupted at the depot in Hollingdean Lane, Brighton, late last night.

An East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman said it was of high importance that residents in the area keep their doors and windows shut.

She said: "Please close your windows and doors due to the volume of smoke.

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"Crews are using three jets, foam, three hydrants, breathing apparatus and the aerial ladder platform to bring the blaze under control."

01:00 #Brighton update. Please close your windows and doors due to the volume of smoke. Crews are using 3 jets, Foam, 3 hydrants, breathing apparatus and the Ariel ladder platform to bring the blaze under control. pic.twitter.com/wnyItA9wuc — East Sussex FRS (@EastSussexFRS) August 26, 2019

A witness, who did not wish to be named, said they could hear bangs and explosions coming from the site but "nobody knows what is going on".

Another added: "I'm in the top floor of the flats by the depot so have got a good view of it all.

"I heard the alarm first but thought nothing of it, then saw very thick smoke coming from the building.

"It seems to be quite heavy and is literally filling the sky.

"I can see a lot of fire crews heading in and out of the gates which are usually locked during the day.

"It's a concern that the whole thing could explode, I don't know what is inside.

"I got some things ready just in case we were evacuated.

"There is a strong smell of burning rubber and plastic, it's not pleasant."

Fire crews were called to the Hollingdean Waste Depot at 10.53pm.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service has six pumps at the scene from Brighton, Hove, Roedean, Lewes and Newhaven stations.

The Argus has received reports that Brighton and Hove residents from as far away as Western Road can smell the burning.

Witness Michael Robinson said: "I was making dinner and I heard fire alarms going off and saw smoke so I went for a walk to see what it was.

At 22.53, 6 pumps were sent from Preston Circus, Hove, Roedean, Lewes & Newhaven to reports of a fire in Hollingdean Lane, Brighton. 1 in 7 foam is being used to put the fire out. An update will be made in an hour. Please close windows and doors. pic.twitter.com/H8ydkwd9gQ — East Sussex FRS (@EastSussexFRS) August 25, 2019

"The fire alarms are still going off right now and the firefighters are putting the fire out."

Another added: "It stinks of burning plastic and I can hear bangs."

Sussex Police are also at the scene.

A spokesman said: "The fire service made us aware of the incident at 10.55pm.

"There is a police unit accompanying six fire engines at the scene.

"One road near the site has been closed off to traffic."

Picture and video credit: Michael Robinson, Eddie Mitchell