Major fire at Derbyshire recycling and waste firm

A major fire at a Derbyshire recycling and waste firm broke out on Wednesday evening (April 15), with eight fire engines and an aerial ladder platform called into action.

Derbyshire Fire and Rescue was called to Ward’s recycling centre on Crompton Road in Ilkeston following a 999 call to its control room at at around 8.30pm last night.

People in the local area who can see or smell smoke were advised to keep their windows and doors closed.

Donald Ward, operations director at Ward, told TheBusinessDesk.com: “We are saddened to share that a fire started at our metal recycling and waste management facility on Crompton Road recycling facility at Hallam Fields in Ilkeston on the evening of Tuesday 15th April 2025.

“We can confirm that everyone is safe and well and would like to express our utmost gratitude to the Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service who have been fantastic in their response and support, getting the situation under control as swiftly as possible.

“We want to reassure our colleagues, clients and partners that Donald Ward Ltd, trading as Ward, is committed to the highest standards of quality and safety. The safety of our colleagues and the community is paramount. The incident is being examined by the appropriate authorities and we will be cooperating fully in the ongoing investigation to understand the circumstances around the incident.”

In an update issued at 6am this morning, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue said: “Firefighters remain at the scene of a fire on Crompton Road in Ilkeston. Four fire engines, a support appliance and aerial ladder platform remain as firefighting continues.

“Please remember if you can see or smell smoke to keep windows and doors closed.”