Persistent Rubbish Fires in Cowfold Spark Health and Environmental Concerns

Residents in Cowfold have raised growing concerns after piles of rubbish were set alight opposite a local care home, with the fires reportedly burning on and off for several days. The persistent burning has led to thick smoke and what locals describe as dangerously high levels of air pollution, affecting nearby residents, businesses, and the […]

Residents in Cowfold have raised growing concerns after piles of rubbish were set alight opposite a local care home, with the fires reportedly burning on and off for several days.

The persistent burning has led to thick smoke and what locals describe as dangerously high levels of air pollution, affecting nearby residents, businesses, and the wider environment. Those living close to the site say the smoke has been particularly worrying given its proximity to the care home, where vulnerable residents may be exposed to poor air quality.

The issue has been reported to local authorities, and firefighters have attended the site on multiple occasions in recent days. Despite these interventions, the fires are said to be continuing, leaving residents frustrated and concerned about the lack of a lasting solution.

A Horsham District Council spokesperson said:

“This matter is being investigated by our Environmental Protection team for potential offences in relation to the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
It would be inappropriate to comment further as to do so may compromise this investigation. The powers of this Council are limited as disposal of waste is the responsibility of the Environment Agency and West Sussex County Council who have been informed.”

A spokesperson for West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service added:

“We were called at 10.37pm last night (27 January) to a large fire in the open in Cowfold near Horsham.
Crews have been monitoring the scene and liaising with partner agencies and the landowner to bring the fire under control.”

Local residents are now calling for urgent action to prevent further burning, citing health risks, environmental damage, and ongoing disruption to the community. They hope enforcement measures will be taken to bring the situation to an end before conditions worsen further.