Metal Recycling Yard Fire Near Lewes: Operation Scaling Back

Crews with six fire engines were this morning (April 9) tackling flames that broke out at a recycling plant next to the A27 just south-east of Lewes.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said their teams were called 5.05 am to the site at Southerham Lane.

It's near the Southerham Roundabout where the A26, having left the Cuilfail Tunnel, joins the A27 Lewes by-pass.

Around 250 tonnes of scrap metal were this morning reportedly alight at the scene, and smoke was drifting across the dual-carriageway nearby.

The incident became visible for many miles around, and multiple 999 calls were made to the fire service.

Attending the scene this morning, along with the six fire engines, were a water carrier, an aerial ladder platform, a command unit and the ESFRS General Purpose Truck. 

Crews said earlier they expected to be there for many hours, though by 10am images from the site showed the flames were confined to a large pile of metal.

At 8am firefighters said there were no reports of any injuries, and crews were "making steady progress".

Soon after 11am, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service told the public the operation on-site was being scaled back, with three engines remaining.

The site was also being returned to the control of its owners, with a further inspection due at 1pm today.

Latest from #Lewes - plant machinery is being used to help us tackle the fire involving 250 tonnes of scrap metal. We're making good progress. Great work by our partners, @ESFRS_Control and crews on the ground. @EnvAgencySE @sussex_police @SECAmbulance pic.twitter.com/tpX8na7LaH

— East Sussex FRS (@EastSussexFRS) April 9, 2021