M25 closed for three days as Ventura Park fire spreads toxic smoke
One person taken to hospital and warehouses evacuated after industrial unit blaze in St Albans
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Incident commander named and date/location provided, but no official documents cited, yielding moderate trust.
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The M25 motorway has been shut in both directions between junctions 21A and 22 for three days after a fire erupted at an industrial unit in Ventura Park, St Albans. The blaze, which began on 11 August 2026, sent thick smoke across the carriageway, prompting fears of a secondary explosion.
Wayne Gibbons, the incident commander at the scene, confirmed that firefighters were still working to extinguish remaining pockets of fire on 13 August. He said crews would continue to monitor the area until operations were complete.
M25 closed between St Albans and Maple Cross after warehouse fire
Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service has sent 15 appliances to a blaze near junction 22
Residents and businesses affected
Three people were treated at the scene after the fire broke out. One was taken to Watford General Hospital, though their condition remains unclear. Nearby warehouses were evacuated as a precaution, and residents in the area were advised to keep windows and doors closed to avoid inhaling smoke.
Highways England has not yet announced when the M25 will reopen. Diversions remain in place, with drivers warned of significant delays in the area. Local bus services have also been disrupted, though no timetable changes have been confirmed.
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What happens next
Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service said a full investigation into the cause of the fire will begin once the blaze is fully extinguished. No timeline has been given for when the M25 will reopen, but Gibbons confirmed that crews would remain on site until the area was declared safe.
The incident remains ongoing as firefighters continue to work to fully extinguish remaining pockets of fire, damp down the area and ensure scene safety.
Wayne Gibbons, incident commander
Questions this report answers
+How long has the M25 been closed due to the fire?
The M25 between junctions 21A and 22 has been closed since 11 August 2026. Firefighters are still working to extinguish the blaze, and no reopening date has been announced. Diversions remain in place for drivers.
+Were any injuries reported in the Ventura Park fire?
Three people were treated at the scene after the fire broke out. One person was taken to Watford General Hospital, but their condition has not been disclosed by authorities.
+What should residents near Ventura Park do?
Residents were advised to keep windows and doors closed to avoid smoke exposure. Nearby warehouses were evacuated as a precaution, but no further instructions have been issued.
+When will the M25 reopen after the fire?
No date has been set for reopening the M25. Fire crews will remain on site until the blaze is fully extinguished and the area is declared safe, after which an investigation will begin.
WE FILE
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