West Sussex, August 24, 2026 — A major fire at a holiday parking site near Gatwick Airport has destroyed or damaged a large number of vehicles, leaving travellers facing uncertainty over their cars and prompting a police investigation.
The blaze broke out shortly after 9pm on Saturday, August 22, at Caldyne Business Park in Rowfant, West Sussex, a site used by motorists who leave their vehicles there while travelling through Gatwick Airport.
Eight fire engines and two water carriers were deployed as firefighters battled the flames through the night. The fire also damaged high-voltage electrical equipment, forcing UK Power Networks to temporarily cut electricity to more than 2,000 homes and businesses in the surrounding area.
Images and videos from the scene showed flames and heavy smoke rising over the site, while the aftermath revealed rows of scorched vehicles.
While reports have described around 100 cars as destroyed, authorities have so far publicly confirmed that a number of vehicles were damaged. The precise number of vehicles destroyed is still being established.
Man arrested on suspicion of arson
Sussex Police have arrested a 67-year-old man on suspicion of arson in connection with the incident. He has since been released on bail while enquiries continue.
Police also warned that roads around the site remained closed as a precaution, while residents were advised to keep windows and doors closed during the emergency response.
Fortunately, no casualties have been reported.
Travellers urged to contact parking operators
The incident could cause significant disruption for holidaymakers who had left their vehicles at the site before flying from Gatwick.
Sussex Police said affected customers should contact their parking operators directly regarding their vehicles and any potential damage. Investigators are continuing to establish how the fire started and the full extent of the losses.
The incident has also renewed concerns about the vulnerability of large vehicle storage and airport parking facilities, where fires can spread rapidly because of the close proximity of parked vehicles.
Authorities are expected to provide further details as the investigation progresses.
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