Rushden fire accidental say Northants Fire Service
Their investigation wasn't able to find out what started the huge blaze at Sanders Lodge Industrial Estate last Friday 23 May.
Last updated 30th May 2025
Northamptonshire Fire Service have ruled last weeks blaze at a recycling centre in Rushden was accidental.
A critical incident was declared this time last week as 12 crews tried to get the fire under control at Sanders Lodge Industrial Estate, at Monoworld Recycling.
Orange flames and large black plumes of smoke could be seen from miles, and roads were closed near the site.
Firefighters took most of the day to get the blaze under control after it started just before 6:30am Friday 23 May.
Aerial images of the scene showed large white plastic bales alight, with residents urged to keep doors and windows closed.
In a statement Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service said:
"After an investigation, the cause has been determined as accidental, due to the spontaneous combustion of a viable ignition source. The source of the initial ignition cannot be determined."
They added that the site will now be handed back to the owners, but fire crews will still be attending the site to monitor temperatures and dampen down any remaining hotspots.
A week on, smoke is still coming from the site, which fire crews say they are continuing to monitor.
They are reminding local residents are asked to continue keeping their windows and doors shut if still affected by it.
Northamptonshire Fire & Recue also thanked members of the public for their continued patience and support while they dealt with the fire.