Latest emergency information

We have set up a helpline to offer support to businesses and residents directly affected by the fire at Highlands Farm, East Hanningfield on Friday 24 July 2026.

We are coordinating help and support, and we advise those whose property has been affected to contact their insurance company as a first priority.

You can call our dedicated helpline if you live in the area on 01245 605748, between 8.45am and 4.45pm, and you can also email Highlands.Support@chelmsford.gov.uk.

We recognise the significant impact that the recent incident at Highlands Farm has had on local businesses. We are working with our partners to provide support to businesses affected.

The measures are being co-ordinated by our Economic Development and Implementation Team via economy@chelmsford.gov.uk.

Emergency grant support scheme

We have set up an Emergency Grant Support Scheme for businesses directly impacted by the incident.

The scheme is intended to provide limited short-term financial assistance towards immediate recovery costs and essential business continuity measures, while businesses pursue insurance claims and other sources of support.

Temporary business accommodation

Businesses that have been displaced and require temporary office accommodation and thinking space can access short-term workspace at the Coval Co-Working Space, at the Civic Centre. This is a co-working business space, managed by Let’s Do Business Group and offers a supportive environment. This will be provided at no cost to the business.

In addition, support is available to help businesses identify and secure alternative commercial premises where longer-term accommodation is required.

Business recovery support

Businesses affected by the incident will be able to access a free bespoke one-to-one session with a business adviser to support you through this difficult time.

Business Rates and Valuation Office Agency (VOA)

We collect Business Rates on behalf of the government’s Valuation Office Agency. If your building has been destroyed or substantially damaged, it can be removed from the VOA’s ratings list. Once this has happened, you will no longer need to pay Businesses Rates on the affected building.

We have contacted the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) alerting them to the incident and the impact on affected businesses.

However, businesses should contact the VOA directly to speed this process up. It can take some time, and businesses should not assume that changes to their rates account will be made automatically. You can contact the VOA via 03000 501 501. You can also read their guidance on removing a property from the business rates list.

Following the fire at Highlands Farm in East Hanningfield on Friday 24 July 2026, some residents may find ash or debris on their property.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has advised that the overall risk to public health from the smoke and debris is low.

They have issued the following advice as a precaution:

• do not sweep or vacuum debris, as this may create dust

• if ash or debris has settled on your lawn, please avoid mowing until it has been removed

• if you have some dust and debris from the fire on any clothing, then as a precaution it should be washed in lukewarm water for at least 10 to 15 minutes to remove any particles

• some pieces of debris may have travelled beyond the site of the fire. If you find debris on your property and need to remove it, pick up any larger pieces wearing protective gloves and double bag the pieces within two plastic bags. You can then dispose of this in your black bin or at your local household recycling centre.

Some people who were exposed to the smoke may have experienced temporary symptoms such as coughing, a sore throat, watery eyes or mild breathing difficulties. These symptoms should improve once away from the affected area. If you are concerned or your symptoms persist, please contact your GP or NHS 111.

After an emergency, recovery can take time and often involves many different organisations working together. The aim is to help affected communities return to normal as safely and quickly as possible, while supporting local wellbeing, services, businesses and the environment.

Our role after a major incident is often to coordinate the recovery process and provide strategic guidance. We work with partner agencies like police and fire services, local businesses, other councils and organisations, and the wider community. We help to make sure support goes where it is needed most, that key services are restored, and that residents and businesses are kept informed.

We may also provide additional targeted support or resources where needed, helping partners respond to changing needs throughout the recovery period.

The following is a usual protocol. Depending on the incident, other agencies like emergency services, landowners or insurers may be responsible for some of the work. When this happens, we will communicate as clearly as possible to affected people so that they know who to go to.

Health, safety and the environment

Working with partner organisations, we will monitor public health or environmental issues linked to the incident. This may include environmental health advice, waste management, pollution control and other measures to protect people and the local area.

Restoring shared services and transport

We may work with utility companies to help restore essential services, such as power, water and other utilities. We also work with transport providers to help bring transport networks back into use as soon as it is safe and practical to do so.

Support for businesses

Local businesses may need advice and practical assistance following an emergency. We will offer information and support to help with the immediate operational and financial impact of the incident. We can also give ongoing guidance to businesses as they work towards reopening.

Support for residents

We will support residents affected by an emergency with advice and practical assistance where needed, including people who are unable to remain in their homes. This may include help to find alternative accommodation, and guidance on next steps while repairs and recovery work are carried out.

Keeping people informed

Communication is an important part of recovery. We will work with partners to share accurate information with those affected by the incident, respond to community concerns and ensure councillors and local representatives are kept informed where appropriate.