Alistair Strathern MP holds public meeting on recent industrial fires in Hitchin

PRESS RELEASE FROM ALISTAIR STRATHERN MP

MONDAY 31st MARCH 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Last week, Alistair Strathern, MP for Hitchin, hosted a well-attended public meeting to address the recent spate of industrial fires in the town.

The event, held at Holy Saviour Church on Friday 28th March, brought together around 50 residents to discuss their experiences and hear about the progress being made to tackle the issue.

During the meeting, Strathern outlined the steps he has taken alongside key local stakeholders to address the problem, while also listening to the concerns of those affected. He was joined by Councillor Ian Albert, who represents the impacted area and has been working closely with him for several months to push for stronger action.

Albert has been instrumental in helping Strathern to unite local stakeholders—including local councils, councillors, the fire service, and the Environment Agency—to find a long-term solution.

In the past year, Hitchin’s industrial centre has been the site of 5 major fires, primarily caused by the disposal of lithium-ion batteries and small appliances. Beyond the fires, residents have also raised concerns about persistent noise and air pollution from the waste sites, with the exact health risks still unclear.

At the meeting Mr Strathern urged all those impacted by the issues with the sites to email his office to keep in touch about how they can support driving forward the changes needed. 

Alistair Strathern MP said:

“A huge thank you to everyone who came along to this important fire meeting, and for contributing to a really helpful discussion.

“I have been heartened by the progress we have made so far, including the safety guarantees we have received for the site, but lots more needs to be done.

“I will be continuing to work with all local stakeholders on this issue, and, as always, continue to welcome and be supported by constituent’s suggestions and feedback.”

Notes for Editors

You can see an image from the event, attached.

You can see a post put out by Strathern following the event, here.