Edinburgh police launch investigation over 'wilful' fire that was 'seen for miles'

Police have launched an investigation over a 'wilful' fire that broke out in Edinburgh on Friday.

A huge plume of smoke could be seen for miles as portacabins at a site on Clermiston Road North became engulfed in flames.

Fire crews raced to the scene after receiving reports of the blaze at around 6.05pm on May 17 and police shortly arrived to assist.

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Residents told Edinburgh Live how they were ordered to close their windows as a 'strong smell of burning plastic' filled the air.

One local said: "He said: “I was just out cutting the grass when all of a sudden there was a really strong smell of what seemed liked burning plastic.

"When I came out my front door I saw neighbours all outside looking at the smoke that was billowing into the sky at Queensferry Road.

"We’ve had to shut all the windows and doors cause the smell is so pungent.

"The sound of sirens have been ringing on and off for the past half hour or so. The smoke could be seen for miles."

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Around 6.35pm on Friday, 17 May, we were called to a report of a fire at in Clermiston Road North, Edinburgh.

"Officers attended and assisted SFRS.

“The fire is being treated as wilful and enquiries are ongoing.”