A FIRE closed a street in Rhayader, blocking access to the Elan Valley.

The fire broke out at a warehouse at masons Ben Lloyd & Son in Bridge Street at around 10am and police evacuated everyone from inside the property, as well as the surrounding area.

West Street in Rhayader was also closed at Church Road due to the incident with reports of “lots of smoke” being seen in the area and a police cordon has been set up.

“Dyfed-Powys Police was called just after 10.20am this morning, Tuesday April 20th, to a report of a fire at a business premises in Bridge street, Rhayader,” the force said in a statement.

“The property and surrounding area have been evacuated. A cordon has been put in place and the road closed to traffic and pedestrians for the safety of the public.

“The public is asked to avoid the area while the incident is being dealt with.”

A spokesman for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue confirmed that three bowsers were used to tackle the fire. One engine remained on the scene. The road was back open just before 2pm.

“West Street Rhayader at Church Road closed due to fire further down at or over the bridge, lots of smoke so may be a while. No access to Elan Valley,” said Pete Roberts, a Llandrindod Wells county councillor who lives in Rhayader, posting on the Mid Powys Community Travel Alerts Facebook page.