West Sussex County Council: Praise for rubbish site blaze firefighters

Date: Jun 10, 2008

Press Release Number: PR2224

Press Release

The firefighters who tackled last night’s (Monday June 9) major blaze at Crawley’s Household Waste Recycling Site have been praised by Henry Smith, Leader of West Sussex County Council, which operates the site.

Henry, who also represents Pound Hill, Worth and Maidenbower Electoral Division, said: “Once again, the firefighters of West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service showed true professionalism, tackling a blaze with their usual bravery and expertise.

“The fire began just after six in the evening and they spent many hours tackling what was a major incident involving a large amount of rubbish.

“The blaze was initially tackled by two crews from Crawley, who were quickly joined by a further eight fire engines and an aerial ladder platform.”

Henry said the site, which is in Metcalfe Way on an industrial estate in the town, is a flagship project, being one of the best household waste facilities in Europe.

“The cause of the fire is not known yet and investigations are currently underway. Once these have been completed, we shall be looking at rebuilding and restoring this prestige site, which we would aim to finish within six months to a year, depending on what damage there is to the superstructure,” he said.

In the meantime, West Sussex County Council waste experts are consulting with the Environment Agency and Crawley Borough Council about the possibility of setting up temporary waste facilities next to the site.

Ends…