A major fire tore through a holiday parking site used by Gatwick Airport passengers in West Sussex, destroying several cars and cutting electricity to more than 2,000 properties. A 67-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of arson and has since been released on bail while investigations continue.
Fire at Caldyne Business Park
Emergency crews were called to Caldyne Business Park in Rowfant, West Sussex, shortly before 9pm on Saturday 22 August. West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service said the blaze engulfed a workshop, various vehicles including electric and heavy goods vehicles, and cylinders.
Several cars caught in the flames belonged to holiday parking services. Those affected have been advised to contact their operator directly.
Power cuts and road closures
UK Power Networks disconnected electricity to more than 2,000 properties while firefighters dealt with the incident, affecting numerous businesses and households. Surrounding roads were closed as a safety measure.
Vulnerable residents received support from West Sussex County Council's Resilience and Emergencies Team, and power has since been reinstated. No casualties were reported.
Investigation underway
Firefighting teams remained on site on Monday 24 August damping down remaining hotspots and were expected to leave later that day. A joint fire investigation involving West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service and Sussex Police has been initiated.
A spokesperson for West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service said: "On Saturday (22 August) at 8.56pm we were alerted to fire at Wallage Lane in Rowfant. Crews have been at the scene since the initial 999 call, responding to a significant and complex fire involving a workshop, vehicles (including electric and heavy goods vehicles), and cylinders."
Sussex Police confirmed a 67-year-old man was detained on suspicion of arson. He has since been bailed pending further enquiries. Anyone with information is asked to report it online or call 101, quoting serial 1504 of 22/08.
