Full Breakdown
Gatwick Holiday-Parking Car Park Fire: Suspected Arson Sparks Major Emergency Response
8/25/2026, 1:08:09 AM
Core Incident
On August 22, a blaze erupted at Caldyne Business Park in Rowfant, West Sussex, a site used for holiday parking by passengers travelling from London Gatwick Airport. The fire broke out just before 9 p.m., engulfing a workshop, multiple vehicles—including electric and heavy-goods trucks—and several gas cylinders. Sussex Police arrested a 67-year-old man on suspicion of arson; he was later released on bail while enquiries continue.
Background & Context
The Rowfant facility is a third-party car-park that serves travellers who leave their vehicles there while flying abroad.
Data & Statistics
- Vehicle loss: West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service reported “approximately 140 vehicles were damaged,” while other outlets described the damage as “dozens of vehicles.”
- Power outage: More than 2,000 homes and businesses lost electricity after UK Power Networks isolated an overhead line.
- Fire-fighting resources: Eight fire engines and water carriers were deployed.
- Casualties: No injuries were reported.
Official Statements & Responses
- West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said crews responded to the 8:56 p.m. alert, worked to extinguish the workshop, vehicles and cylinders, and continued damping down hotspots on August 24. Power was temporarily cut for safety and vulnerable residents received assistance from West Sussex County Council’s Resilience and Emergencies Team.
- Sussex Police confirmed the arson arrest and urged anyone with information to contact police online or call 101. The force also noted that nearby roads were closed as a precaution.
- London Gatwick reiterated that the parking operator is independent and advised concerned passengers to contact their parking provider directly.
- UK Power Networks isolated the affected overhead line to protect crews and restored supply once the fire was under control.
Verbatim Quotes
- “On Saturday (22 August) at 8.56pm we were alerted to fire at Wallage Lane in Rowfant.” — Rescue Service
- “A number of cars were damaged at a site used for holiday parking. Any affected consumers are advised to contact their parking operator directly.” — Police spokesperson
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the scale of vehicle loss: the fire service spokesperson cited “approximately 140 vehicles,” whereas other reports referenced “dozens” without a precise count. No official figure has been released pending the joint investigation by West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and Sussex Police. Details on the types of vehicles destroyed (e.g., electric cars, heavy-goods vehicles) also vary slightly between reports.
What’s Next
A joint fire investigation remains ongoing, with Sussex Police and West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service coordinating efforts. Authorities continue to ask the public to avoid the area and to provide any information that could aid the inquiry. Restoration of power supplies has been completed, and fire crews are expected to stand down after confirming that all hotspots are fully extinguished.
