A MAJOR clean-up operation is underway to clear a huge pile of refuse that was dumped after rubbish in a bin wagon caught fire.

The refuse truck had to empty its load in Sackville Road, Hove, after the fire began in the wagon earlier this morning (September 4).

A spokesman from Brighton and Hove City Council said the cause of the fire has not been confirmed.

However, the council suspects it was caused by a lithium battery from a phone or similar device.

Cityclean staff are currently on site and a crane has been arranged to clear the mess “as quickly as possible”.

The area has been cordoned off and drivers have been warned that there will be travel disruption due to the incident.

The Argus: Brighton and Hove City Council said a crane is coming to clear the rubbish Picture: Simon SmithBrighton and Hove City Council said a crane is coming to clear the rubbish Picture: Simon Smith

A council spokesman said: “East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service attended and put out the fire.

“This required the contents of the vehicle to be emptied into the road so it could be dealt with.

“Council Cityclean staff are in attendance and have cordoned off the area. A specialist contractor has been arranged with a crane to clear the refuse as quickly as possible.

“There may be some traffic and travel disruption in the Sackville Road until this happens. We are sorry for any inconvenience.”

The Argus: The area has been cordoned off Picture: Simon SmithThe area has been cordoned off Picture: Simon Smith

The spokesman also warned people not to dispose of batteries in general waste bins.

 “These should not be put in general waste, but should be taken to a bank at a recycling point, one of the Household Waste Recycling Sites, TECH take back or at Curry’s or B&Q who take them,” he said.