Newcastle recycling plant damaged by fire

Fire has extensively damaged a recycling factory in Newcastle, with police yet to determine if it is suspicious.

Emergency services were called to the plant on McIntosh Drive in Mayfield West about 8.45pm yesterday, police said.

The factory was well alight when Fire & Rescue NSW arrived, but no one was inside the building at the time.

A smoke warning has been issued for the surrounding area, with residents urged to avoid the thick black smoke spewing from the building.

The building has continued to smoulder this morning, with firefighters expected to fully extinguish the blaze later today

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.