MP calls for action after third industrial fire

The fire took place on Thursday night in Hitchin

An MP has called for "robust action" to reduce fire risks after the third blaze at an industrial estate this year.

Five fire engines and an aerial ladder platform were sent by Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue to Global Ardour Recycling in Wallace Way, Hitchin, at about 22:31 BST on Friday.

Labour MP Alistair Strathern posted on Facebook: "I share residents' concern at another fire breaking out on Hitchin’s industrial estates yesterday evening.

"The fire is a stark reminder of the need for all local stakeholders to work together and take robust action where needed to reduce the risk of fires, which seem to be becoming all to common an occurrence."

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue used five fire engines and an aerial ladder platform to fight the blaze

A fire had taken place at the neighbouring Nationwide Metal Centre plant in July, and another had happened at the same location in February.

In December a third fire occurred at a recycling centre on the same industrial estate.

Strathern said: "We shouldn’t tolerate this, and I certainly won’t as our MP."

In July Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service dealt with a fire on the industrial estate at Nationwide Metal Centre

Mark Barber, the assistant chief fire officer, said: “This was a large fire involving a number of vehicles and stored tyres.

"Fortunately nobody was injured and this morning we are working with the site owners to establish the cause of the fire.”

Firefighters worked overnight and they remained at the scene until 02:45 BST.