Fire at Hitchin recycling centre causing 'toxic fumes' extinguished
Hertfordshire Police had been urging local residents to keep their windows closed
Last updated 8th Feb 2024
Update: Two crews remain at the scene to damp down hotspots
An update from Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service this morning says the fire has now been extinguished, and firefighters worked through the night to make progress.
Two crews remain at the scene in Cadwell Lane to continue to damp down hotspots.
Firefighters were called at 11:50pm last night to the fire at the metal recycling works, with six crews and an aerial ladder platform in attendance.
A large pile of scrap metal was found well alight, and the fire was put out by 6:50am this morning.
Residents asked to keep their windows closed
Residents in Hitchin are being asked to keep their windows shut this morning, as a fire at a nearby recycling centre is causing toxic fumes.
Hertfordshire Police say the blaze at the Nationwide Metal Centre in Cadwell Lane is causing the fumes.
Roads included which are being asked to keep windows closed include Wilbury Way, Grove Road and Woolgrove Road.
A spokesperson for Hertfordshire Police said:
"Police were called at around 12:14am today (Thursday 8 February) to report a large industrial fire at a metal recycling centre in Cadwell Lane, Hitchin.
"Officers attended and assisted fire and rescue service crews at the scene.
"There were no reports of injuries, and no road closures were put in place.
"Residents living near the metal centre are asked to keep their windows closed following the fire, as there are toxic fumes in the air. The roads effected include Wilbury Way, Grove Road and Woolgrove Road."