Full Breakdown
Fire and Explosions at Colthrop Business Park Disrupt Rail Services
By Drooid · · How we work
Incident Details
A large fire broke out on an industrial estate in Colthrop, Thatcham, after explosions were heard from the site on Monday evening. Residents reported hearing “explosions” and seeing a fireball, with the sounds continuing into the early hours. The blaze involved an estimated 150 tonnes of assorted batteries, according to fire-service updates. A strong burning smell lingered across Thatcham and nearby Newbury the following morning.
Impact on Rail Operations
Great Western Railway confirmed that the nearby railway line was closed after the incident, halting all train movements through the area for the remainder of the evening. Services between Reading and Newbury were suspended, and long-distance trains between London Paddington and the West Country were diverted onto alternative routes. No further trains were scheduled to run through the affected section until the situation was resolved.
Official Responses
Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service reported receiving a high volume of emergency calls and dispatched crews to the scene. The service issued multiple updates, thanking the public for their patience and advising residents to avoid the area and remain indoors where possible. It indicated that emergency crews were likely to remain on site for an extended period.
Great Western Railway stated that it had been informed of the fire close to the railway and that closure of the line was necessary for safety, with no trains operating through the area until further notice.
Current Situation
Fire crews continued to work on the blaze throughout the day, and the incident was classified as a major emergency. Residents were urged to stay indoors and follow any further instructions from emergency services. Updates were promised as the response progressed, but no definitive timeline for restoring rail services had been provided.