M25 closed in both directions after major fire near St Albans raises explosion risk

A large fire at a commercial premises near the M25 in Hertfordshire has forced the motorway to close in both directions on Tuesday morning. The closure affects the stretch between junction 22 at St Albans and junction 21A, after emergency crews reported a risk of secondary explosions. Smoke and debris were also affecting the carriageway, according to the road operator.

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National Highways said the incident involved a significant fire at a commercial site close to the motorway. Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service deployed 15 fire appliances to the scene to tackle the blaze. The fire service said it was responding at Ventura Park, Old Parkbury Lane, Colney Street, St Albans, and urged local residents to keep doors and windows closed and avoid the area.

The incident is also close to the railway line, and a representative from Network Rail was on site liaising with firefighters. Drivers were warned to expect delays of around 60 minutes in both directions on approach to the closures, with motorists advised to use other routes. The motorway remained shut as a precaution while crews dealt with the fire and assessed the risk to nearby infrastructure.

The disruption matters because the M25 is one of the UK's most important transport corridors, carrying heavy traffic around London and linking major routes across the south-east. A closure on this section can quickly affect commuting, freight movement and access to surrounding towns. The added concern over possible explosions increases the complexity of the response and can prolong restrictions until the site is made safe.

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The industrial park at Ventura Park is home to several businesses, including film studios and a DPD depot, underlining the commercial importance of the area. The location just inside the M25 places the incident close to the boundary often used to mark Greater London, which can widen the impact for nearby communities and road users. Smoke was visible from some distance away, according to people in the area, although one nearby activities centre said it was aware of the fire and was not affected.

It is not yet clear what caused the fire or whether any injuries have been reported. The timing of any reopening for the motorway also remains uncertain, with crews still working at the scene. The key issues to watch are whether the risk of secondary explosions can be removed, how long the closures last, and whether rail services or nearby businesses are further affected.

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