A series of fires at Tetbury Industrial Estate, located just two miles from King Charles III’s Highgrove House, has sparked significant concern among local residents. The fires, ongoing for over a week, have emitted dense smoke and toxic fumes, causing physical illness and forcing children and pets to remain indoors.
Since the initial report on January 12, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service has responded to over 50 calls and attended the site eight times. Despite efforts, the fires have not burned continuously but have repeatedly reignited, keeping the community on edge. Thick, black smoke and the smell of burning rubber and plastic have permeated homes, leaving residents struggling with health issues and blocked visibility.
Local residents, like Kayleigh and Lynsey Hart, describe the situation as worsening. Kayleigh shares, “The fires are growing bigger and the smell is like burning rubber and plastic – toxic and making us feel ill. We haven’t dared let the children outside, and pets are confined inside too.” Lynsey recounts experiencing nausea and headaches, emphasizing the danger posed by the fires. “It’s frightening, especially with so many kids nearby. One stray ember could cause widespread damage.”
READ MORE: New Map Empowers Gloucestershire to Balance Nature and Development
READ MORE: Smaller Five Acres Leisure Centre Plans Approved Despite Community Concerns
The owner of Tetbury Industrial Estate claims the fires were authorized by the fire brigade and local council as part of efforts to clear illegal fly-tipping on the site. They maintain the fires are now extinguished and the area cleaned. However, residents remain skeptical and apprehensive about potential flare-ups, particularly as the fires often start unpredictably during different times of day.
Council and fire service officials continue to monitor the situation closely. The Cotswold District Council’s Environmental Health team has acted by issuing a Fixed Penalty Notice and an abatement notice to stop the fires. Dr. Roz Savage, Liberal Democrat MP for South Cotswolds, expressed solidarity with the affected community and pledged to advocate for stronger enforcement to restore residents’ safety and peace of mind.
Despite official reassurances, the ongoing distress among residents highlights the difficult balance between managing environmental hazards and addressing the immediate health and safety concerns of the community.