Hitchin recycling centre fire closes roads as MP brands number of incidents 'unacceptable'

Wallace Way recycling centre fire, Hitchin, Hertfordshire on 8 November 2024. Credit: Herts Fire and Rescue Service
The blaze at the site in Wallace Way in Hitchin in Hertfordshire broke out before 7am on Friday. Credit: Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service

Fire crews have closed roads as they battle a blaze at a recycling centre - the latest in a series labelled "unacceptable" by the local MP.

The fire at the site in Wallace Way in Hitchin in Hertfordshire broke out at 2.30am on Friday, and by midday crews said they had the fire contained.

Footage posted on social media showed thick plumes of black smoke billowing into the air, as fire crews warned people living nearby to keep their doors and windows closed.

Hitchin MP Alistair Strathern has previously raised concerns at the number of fires on the industrial estate and called the situation "unacceptable" after the latest.

"I completely share residents' anger, concern and disbelief over yet another fire breaking out in the early hours at Hitchin's industrial estates."

Firefighters have been battling to get the blaze under control since 2.30am. Credit: Shefford Community Fire Station

Thanking firefighters, he added: "This situation is unacceptable. I am actively working with Hertfordshire Fire Service, the Environment Agency, and local authorities to address residents' serious concerns - including on safety and the impact on air quality.

"I'll be convening a public meeting with all relevant agencies to ensure robust measures are put in place to reduce the risk of these all-too-frequent fires.

"This simply cannot be a state of affairs we continue to accept."

The service said it had had to close the junction of Cadwell Lane, Wilbury Way and Woolgrove Road "to set up a high-volume pump".

More than 60 calls were made to the service to report the fire, said a spokesman.

Mark Barber, assistant chief fire officer, said: “Crews have been working since before 3am this morning to contain a large fire at a metal recycling centre on Wallace Way, Hitchin.

"People at properties in the vicinity should keep doors and windows closed due to the smoke and we are working closely with Hertfordshire County Council Public Health, the Environment Agency and UKHSA to ensure health and environmental risks are carefully monitored and managed."

He asked people to check their journeys before travelling, due to the road closures.

Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know