People across Southampton saw a gigantic plume of smoke tower over St Mary's after Polystar Plastics in Melbourne Street caught fire on March 6, 2024.
The blaze was so intense that it took more than 100 firefighters to bring it under control, and a plume of smoke could be seen from as far away as Romsey and the New Forest.
Southampton FC was set to take on Preston North End in a Championship match – but Preston fans were told to turn around and head for home as the game was cancelled for health and safety reasons.
READ MORE: Fire near St Mary's Stadium - fire service statement in full
Firefighters tackling the blazeFirefighters tackling the blaze (Image: Jose Ramos)
READ MORE: Warehouse blaze near St Mary's one of biggest firefighters ever seen
Now, freeholders of the site - Coal Pension Properties Ltd - have received planning permission to demolish the remaining warehouses damaged in the blaze.
The units, located just south of St Mary's Stadium, were severely damaged by the fire and have been left unused since.
Firefighters who battled the flames said it was one of the biggest fires they had seen, but after an investigation ruled it was not suspicious.
The plumes could be seen from across SouthamptonThe plumes could be seen from across Southampton (Image: NQ)
VIDEO: Part of warehouse on fire near St Mary's Stadium collapses
For three months following the fire, the pile of twisted metal and brick lay dormant before the first units were demolished for safety reasons.
In October, Southampton City Council was approached for advice on redevelopment proposals, which include constructing new industrial units.
The proposed demolition aims to clear the fire-damaged buildings and restore the site to a level base.
In total, five units were damaged in the fire - units 13 to 17.
READ MORE: St Mary's fire: Photos show demolition of warehouse
Units 13 to 15 were the units that were demolished immediately after the fire in the interest of safety. Units 16 and 17 are partially collapsed, and are set to be demolished as part of this now-approved plan.
The proposed demolition schedule includes asbestos removal, soft stripping, followed by demolition.
The site falls within a local archaeological potential area, requiring specific assessments and monitoring during demolition.
It has not been confirmed what is planned at the warehouse site once the demolition has been completed.