M25 Section Closed Amid Industrial Estate Fire Near St Albans
Thick smoke and explosion fears prompt motorway shutdown, causing significant commuter delays.
Sarah Connor
A section of the M25 has been closed due to an industrial estate fire raging next to the motorway.
Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue responded to a blaze in Ventura Park, Old Parkbury Lane, Colney Street, St Albans, at 09:21 BST. Crews confirmed they were "currently responding to an incident in Ventura Park, Old Parkbury Lane, Colney Street, St Albans."
National Highways issued diversion routes for traffic. A Network Rail representative arrived on site due to the incident's proximity to a railway line.
Fears of 'explosions' from the industrial estate fire escalated. National Highways claimed a risk of secondary explosions, smoke, and debris affecting the carriageway.
The motorway closed in both directions as a precaution, citing the potential for secondary explosions, smoke, and debris to impact the carriageway.
If you live locally, we advise to keep doors and windows closed and please avoid the area while emergency crews carry out their work.
Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service advised local residents to keep doors and windows closed. The service stated, "If you live locally, we advise to keep doors and windows closed and please avoid the area while emergency crews carry out their work."
This incident occurs as firefighters across the UK battle widespread wildfires during an ongoing drought. The Met Office issued an amber heat warning for Thursday, with temperatures expected to reach up to 38C in parts of England.