Fire Destroys 140 Cars at Gatwick Holiday Parking Site

A significant fire destroyed approximately 140 vehicles and damaged several businesses at a popular off-airport parking site near London Gatwick on Saturday night, August 22, 2026. The blaze at Caldyne Business Park in Rowfant, West Sussex, has left holidaymakers returning from trips facing the loss or damage of their cars.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service was alerted to the fire at 8:56 p.m. on Wallage Lane. Crews responded to what they described as a "significant and complex" incident involving a workshop, electric and heavy goods vehicles, and gas cylinders. Eight fire engines and two water carriers battled the flames through the night, with firefighters remaining on scene into Monday, August 24, to damp down hotspots.

No injuries were reported. However, the fire caused widespread disruption. UK Power Networks had to isolate an overhead power line, cutting electricity to more than 2,000 homes and businesses in the area. Power was restored by Sunday morning. Nearby roads were closed as a precaution, and residents were advised to keep windows and doors shut due to thick smoke.

The site, which is not operated by Gatwick Airport itself, is used by several holiday parking...