Fire crews made significant progress overnight after a major fire broke out at a commercial unit near Charing, Ashford on Saturday, 3 May 2025.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service was called to Hurstford Lane at 5:41pm following reports of a fire at a large commercial building.
At the height of the incident, ten fire engines and two bulk water carriers were deployed.
Firefighters, wearing breathing apparatus, used main jets, high-pressure hose reels, and a compressed air foam system (CAFS) to extinguish the flames.
Partner agencies including UK Power Networks, the Environment Agency, and KFRS’s Volunteer Response Team were also on scene to assist operations and support crew welfare.
Initially, residents and travellers near Hurstford Lane were advised to keep windows and doors closed due to significant smoke.
However, by 7am today (4 May), the advice was lifted as crews successfully brought the fire under control.
As of the latest update, three fire engines remain on site damping down and checking for hotspots to prevent any flare-ups.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in connection with the fire.
An investigation into the cause of the fire is expected to commence once the site is fully secured.
Authorities continue to urge residents to stay updated and to share information with any neighbours who may not have internet access.
