Rail passengers are facing major disruption after a large fire broke out next to railway tracks near Watford Junction.
The blaze was reported on Monday evening, with witnesses describing a “huge” fire and smoke affecting the surrounding area.
Network Rail said the fire was next to the railway in the Watford Junction area. Although the blaze has since been extinguished, disruption to train services is expected to continue for the remainder of the day.
At around 9pm, reports indicated that all lines through the area had been blocked, with a number of services cancelled.
Councillor Richard Short said there were “massive queues of people outside Watford Junction”, with passengers being held on the approach to the station.
Other people in the town reported being able to smell what they described as “awful” smoke.
Major disruption to rail services
The incident has caused significant disruption to trains travelling through one of the busiest sections of the rail network north of London.
Passengers intending to travel through Watford Junction are being advised to check their journey before setting off and allow additional time.
The cause of the fire has not yet been established.
Hertfordshire Constabulary and Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service have been approached for further information.
This is a developing incident and further updates are expected.
