Large fire in Bicester now 'under control'
Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue say four crews remain on the scene this morning
Last updated 16th May 2025
A large fire that broke out in Bicester on Thursday evening (15 May) is now under control, Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue have confirmed.
The fire service have released an update this morning after huge clouds of smoke were seen pouring from Bicester Heritage, a motoring and aviation site located on a former RAF base.
Four fire crews remain at the scene of the serious incident at Bicester Motion having been called out shortly before 7pm on Thursday. At the peak of the fire 10 crews battled the blaze. South Central Ambulance service were all in attendance.
A spokesperson for the fire service said: "The fire is still ongoing but is under control. Other support appliances remain on scene including a hydraulic platform, a water carrier, a command unit and a high volume pumping unit
"Advice for local residents to remain indoors and shut all windows has been lifted. Roads that were previously closed are now being opened but traffic is heavy."
'Bangs and explosions'
Some nearby residents reported social media last night that they heard “bangs” and sounds of an “explosion” coming from the former RAF base.
Kieran McGurk says he “spotted white smoke coming from the the north side of Bicester, and as we got closer to it, started hearing a lot of loud bangs.
He added: “Then the smoke turned black pretty quickly. After that, there are an awful lot of sirens a number of police cars and fire engines were on the scene.
“It appears the one of the original World War 2 hangars is on fire.”
An Air Ambulance has also been seen landing at the site, although it's not yet known if there were any casualties.
Matthew Barber, Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner, is among those reacting to the fire.
He said: "An awful situation in Bicester this evening at Bicester Heritage. Officers from Thames Valley Police are assisting Oxfordshire Fire & Rescue Service in dealing with the significant incident".
Bicester Motion remains closed
Bicester Motion said in a statement: "Further to the incident, emergency services have been called and are attending on-site.
"We appreciate the concern from local residents and wish to communicate that the company is working with the emergency services. At their direction the site will be closed today and over the weekend. A further statement will be made as appropriate."