Kenilworth tip reopens after skip fire forced emergency evacuation
By James Smith 26th Oct 2026
Kenilworth's Cherry Orchard Recycling Centre has today (October 26) reopened after a fire.
The tip was evacuated on Sunday after a fire caused by a battery not disposed of correctly.
Warwickshire County Council confirmed Cherry Orchard reopened this morning at 9.30am.
An update of the weekend said: "Cherry Orchard Recycling Centre is currently closed due to a fire in a skip.
"The site has been safely evacuated and the fire service are in attendance. Please do not go to Cherry Orchard until further notice.
"Princes Drive in Leamington Spa will accept visitors without a booking today."
Warwickshire County Council's environment portfolio has paid tribute to the prompt actions of staff and the fire and rescue service following the small fire.
On further investigation, staff found that a member of the public had thrown a rechargeable lithium-ion battery in a black bag along with other household waste.
The site was evacuated and the centre closed to the public as Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service attended to extinguish the fire, which had quickly spread to a neighbouring skip containing cardboard.
Cllr Darren Cheshire said: "This incident at Cherry Orchard serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of incorrectly disposing of batteries and other hazardous items.
"We are incredibly grateful to staff at the centre and Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service for their swift and effective response. It's crucial that residents understand the correct way to dispose of items like batteries, vapes, and electricals to prevent future fires and ensure the safety of our recycling centre staff and the wider community. We urge everyone to utilise the dedicated facilities provided at our Household Waste Recycling Centres or through other designated collection points."
Share: