Update on Landmann Way fire
The Environment Agency has confirmed to us that the building where the fire started is not being used. Although it has been confirmed as structurally safe, all operations in that building have stopped.
SSSI Ltd is now operating only from a separate building on the site, and the company is operating at a reduced capacity under the waste permit conditions issued by the Environment Agency.
Following the fires, SSSI Ltd has taken a number of steps to reduce the risk of future incidents. This includes installing additional fire prevention equipment, which is now in place on site, and working with the Environment Agency on site improvements and a longer-term plan. The Environment Agency is making regular inspections of the site.
SSSI Ltd has also confirmed that mattresses will no longer be stored on site overnight. The Environment Agency and the Council will continue to monitor the situation and seek assurance that appropriate measures are in place to help prevent future fires and keep residents safe.
Frequently asked questions
Who operates the site?
SSSI Ltd is a privately owned waste management and recycling company that operates the site.
When did SSSI Ltd start operating again?
Tuesday 25 August 2026.
How does the Council use SSSI Ltd's site?
The Council works with a number of external waste management contractors. SSSI Ltd is one of these contractors and accepts some bulky and fly-tipped waste collected by the Council. The Council does not send rubbish or recycling collected from household bins to this site.
Does the Council have a role in the daily operations of SSSI Ltd?
No. The site operates under a permit issued and regulated by the Environment Agency.
Could another fire happen?
No waste site can guarantee that a fire will never happen. However, additional fire prevention measures have been put in place and SSSI Ltd is working with the Environment Agency to reduce the risk of future incidents.
What caused the fires?
The fire in June is believed to have been caused by a lithium-ion battery. The cause of the second fire is still being investigated by the London Fire Brigade.
How will the Council monitor the site?
The site operator is responsible for managing fire risks and meeting the requirements of its permit, issued by the Environment Agency. The Council will continue to stay in contact with the Environment Agency, whichis making regular inspections of the site, and we will and will raise any concerns reported by residents.
Were residents at risk from the fires?
No residents were evacuated. The Council worked with the London Fire Brigade, Environment Agency and other partners to share public health advice and keep residents informed during both incidents. Measures to protect people from smoke and other health impacts are led by the relevant health agencies. The Council is also installing air quality monitors at two nearby locations to strengthen local monitoring.
Why are lithium-ion batteries a problem?
Lithium-ion batteries can catch fire if they are damaged, crushed or punctured. When batteries, vapes, power banks and other electrical items are thrown away incorrectly, they can become damaged during collection and processing, increasing the risk of fire.
What should residents do with batteries?
Batteries, vapes, power banks and electrical items containing batteries should never be put in household rubbish or recycling bins. Instead, they should be taken to a battery recycling point, returned to participating supermarkets, or taken to the Reuse and Recycling Centre on Landmann Way.
What is the Council doing about lithium-ion battery fires?
The Council continues to promote the safe disposal of batteries through campaigns, community engagement and information on its website. The Council is also working with the London Fire Brigade to raise awareness of the fire risks linked to e-bike and e-scooter batteries, including the importance of safe charging practices.
Where can residents get support if they are feeling worried?
We recognise these incidents may have been upsetting for some residents. It is normal to feel anxious or unsettled after an event like this. Talking to family and friends and taking time to do things you enjoy can help. If these feelings continue for more than a few weeks after the fire or are affecting your daily life, please consider speaking to your GP about the support available.