Police remain on the scene today, December 27, as the public are asked to avoid the immediate area in Sea Road.
Nearby residents were advised to keep their windows closed last night as large plumes of smoke rose into the sky.
Investigations are still ongoing as to the cause of the blaze.
A spokesperson for Tyne & Wear Fire & Rescue said: “I can confirm that we have attended a fire in the Sea Road area of South Shields.
“At the height of the incident we had six fire engines, specialist appliances and four officers on scene.
“We cannot confirm the origin of the fire at this time, and we ask the public to keep away from the immediate area.
“We would like to thank Northumbria Police and North East Ambulance Service for their assistance.”
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