Chichester tyre business banned over 'fire risks'

June 19, 2026 - 17:25

A tyre recycling business in Chichester has been stripped of its operating permit with immediate effect after regulators found serious fire risks at the site. Twyford Recycling, which handles used tyres and rubber waste, was ordered to stop all operations following an investigation by the Environment Agency.

Inspectors discovered piles of shredded tyres stored too close together, creating a high risk of rapid fire spread. The site also lacked adequate water supplies for firefighting and had poor separation between different waste types. The Environment Agency said the company failed to follow basic safety rules, putting nearby homes and businesses in danger.

A spokesperson for the agency stated that the immediate revocation was necessary to protect the public and the environment. They noted that tyre fires are notoriously difficult to extinguish and can release toxic smoke for days. The company has 28 days to appeal the decision, but in the meantime, all processing and storage must cease.

Local residents had previously complained about smoke and odours from the site. Fire crews had attended at least two incidents at the facility in the past year. The business now faces the task of clearing the remaining stock under strict supervision, or risk further enforcement action.