St Neots Fire: Recycling Centre Blaze Prompts Safety Advice

Fire crews and police are on the scene of a large building fire at a recycling centre in St Neots, with residents urged to keep windows and doors shut as thick smoke fills the air.

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service was called to the blaze on Marston Road, Eynesbury, at around 10:52 AM on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. Video captured by eyewitness Lee Curtis shows large plumes of smoke and visible flames in the distance. The incident is listed on the fire service's website as 'Building fire - Eynesbury - Huntingdonshire' at 10:52 AM on 11/08/2026.

In an official statement, a fire spokesperson said: “Please close your windows and doors if you are affected by the smoke and stay away from the area.” Cambridgeshire Police are also at the scene, with a spokesperson confirming: “Police are currently on scene assisting with a fire at the recycling centre in Marston Road, Eynesbury. Fire are advising all local residents to keep windows and doors shut due to the smoke.”

Emergency Response and Safety Advice

The response to the St Neots fire follows a standard protocol for incidents involving smoke and potential airborne contaminants. The immediate advice to residents—close windows and doors, stay away from the area—is designed to minimize exposure to smoke, which can contain particulates and irritants. For those living or working near the industrial estate, it's wise to monitor local updates and avoid unnecessary outdoor activity until the fire is under control.

While the cause of the fire has not been confirmed, and no injuries have been reported, the incident highlights the importance of having a fire safety action plan. The Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue website offers an online checker to help households and businesses assess their readiness. Such tools can be invaluable in ensuring you know what to do in the event of a fire, from evacuation routes to emergency contacts.

Recycling Centre Fires: A Recurring Concern

Fires at recycling facilities are not uncommon, often sparked by improper disposal of hazardous materials like batteries, aerosols, or chemicals. While no specific statistics are available for this incident, the broader risk is well known. The St Neots blaze serves as a reminder of the importance of proper waste disposal. Residents should check local guidelines for disposing of items like lithium-ion batteries, which are a frequent culprit in such fires.

For those in the area, the fire service also provides seasonal safety advice, including farm fire safety, which is relevant given the rural surroundings of Huntingdonshire. These resources can help prevent fires before they start, reducing the risk to both property and the environment.

Environmental Impact and Ongoing Monitoring

As of now, no information has been released regarding the environmental impact of the fire, such as air quality or water runoff. However, fires at recycling centres can pose risks to local ecosystems if contaminants are released. The fire service and environmental agencies will likely monitor the situation in the coming days. Residents with concerns about air quality should follow official guidance and consider using air purifiers indoors if smoke persists.

The St Neots fire is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. In the meantime, the advice from officials is clear: if you are affected by the smoke, close your windows and doors, and stay away from the area to allow emergency services to work safely.