A fire involving around 4,000 tonnes of scrap metal broke out at a recycling centre in East Tilbury, Essex, on Saturday night (8 August), while a separate blaze at a waste facility in Dagenham saw 15 fire engines and around 100 firefighters attend on Sunday (9 August).
4,000 tonnes of scrap metal on fire
Essex County Fire and Rescue Service was called to the recycling centre on Station Road, East Tilbury, at around 11.30pm on Saturday.
On arrival, crews reported that around 4,000 tonnes of scrap metal was on fire.
Around 40 firefighters initially attended the incident, working to surround the fire and protect surrounding risks.
Station Manager Lee Hurst said: “If you live nearby and are affected by the smoke, please close your windows and doors.”
Firefighting operations continued throughout Sunday, with around 25 firefighters working at the site during the day.
Group Manager Steve Wintrip added: “Thanks to the local businesses and communities for their patience during this incident.
“We expect to be here overnight and that might disrupt some businesses getting to work tomorrow so please allow extra travel time and thanks for your patience.
“Crews have worked brilliantly today in rather warm temperatures with the site staff to help bring this incident closer to a safe conclusion.”
Dagenham waste facility fire
The Essex incident followed a separate fire at a waste facility on Chequers Lane in Dagenham on Sunday.
London Fire Brigade was called to the incident at 3.26am, with crews from Dagenham, Barking, East Ham and surrounding fire stations mobilised.
15 fire engines and around 100 firefighters are responding to a fire at a waste facility on Chequers Lane, Dagenham.
This is likely to be a protracted incident, with crews working through the morning to extinguish the fire.
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— London Fire Brigade (@LondonFire) August 9, 2026
A total of 15 fire engines and around 100 firefighters attended the incident.
Two of the Brigade’s turntable ladders were deployed, alongside a Hose Laying Unit and High Volume Pump to increase access to the water supply across the incident ground.
The fire was brought under control at 7.43am, although firefighters remained at the scene throughout the morning to dampen down the area and tackle remaining small fires.
Speaking at the scene, Station Commander Graham Beers said: “This is a large incident that will see crews working hard through the morning to ensure any remaining fires are distinguished.
“Residents in the nearby area should keep doors and windows closed where possible as the fire is producing a significant amount of smoke.”
The cause of the fire is not yet known.
These very issues will be at the heart of discussion at the Fire and Health & Safety Conference, taking place on 21 October 2026 – find out more here.
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