A towering blaze has engulfed a warehouse in Rushden, Northamptonshire, prompting a major incident declaration as thick black smoke is seen billowing for miles.

Emergency services rushed to the scene on the Sanders Lodge industrial estate shortly before 6.30am on Friday morning (May 23), where a large quantity of plastic caught fire inside a recycling warehouse.

Residents up to 20 miles away, including from Towcester, have reported seeing the enormous smoke plume filling the sky. Authorities have warned locals to stay away from the site and keep doors and windows closed.

Key Incident Facts

• Location: Sanders Lodge industrial estate, Rushden, Northamptonshire
• First emergency call: Around 6.30am, Friday 23 May
• Resources deployed:
  • 12 fire engines
  • 3 turntable ladders
  • 2 water bowsers
  • 1 high-volume pump
  • Cross-border support from Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue
• Road closures: A5001 Wellingborough Road
• Gas supply: Cut to site; up to 500 properties may be affected
• Health advisory: Residents urged to keep windows and doors closed?️ Evacuation: Building was evacuated prior to fire crews’ arrival
• Casualties: No reported injuries

Fire Service Statement

Area Manager Mick Berry from Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue said:

“This is a large fire that is having a significant impact on the Sanders Lodge industrial estate.

A multi-agency decision has been taken to declare a Major Incident, but fire crews are working extremely hard to prevent the fire from spreading and reduce the smoke plume.

We anticipate that we will be on scene over the rest of the weekend.”

Impact and Response

• Gas supplies have been shut off at the site as a safety measure.
• Businesses on the estate are affected, and fire crews have expressed appreciation for their cooperation.
• The fire involves burning plastic, creating potentially hazardous smoke.

Emergency services are working with North Northamptonshire Council, Cadent, and Northants Police to manage the situation and its wider impact.

Witnesses Share Dramatic Images

Photos and videos shared on social media show towering black clouds visible across the county.
One witness wrote:

“I can see the smoke from 20 miles away—this is enormous.”

Public Advisory

Residents are urged not to approach the area, as emergency crews continue containment efforts. Anyone affected by smoke exposure is advised to seek medical advice.

 Investigation Underway

The cause of the fire is currently unknown, and an investigation will be launched once the site is made safe.