Sudbury police target proactive approach to deter further incidents at fire-ravaged former Delphi factory

Police have pledged a proactive approach to deter further incidents at a fire-ravaged derelict factory, including warning young people about the dangers of entering the site.

A 14-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of arson, in connection with the devastating fire that tore through the former Delphi Diesel Systems premises in Sudbury on May 28.

The blaze caught hold of approximately half of the derelict industrial plant, which is currently owned by Future Properties Holding Ltd, but which has been empty since 2020.

In the months prior to the incident, residents and town councillors had raised concerns about security around the site in Newton Road, with multiple reports of trespassing and vandalism.

Back in March, police confirmed that a break-in had occurred at the building, during which damage was caused to the gas main, resulting in a leak.

At a Sudbury Town Council meeting on Tuesday evening, councillors sought an update on security, amid worries that the risk of break-ins could increase over the summer.

Town councillor Ellen Murphy asked if there would be additional security around the site over the summer.

She said: “Regarding Delphi, with the summer holidays coming up and the site being quite open, is any consultation taking place with the owners to make the site more secure?”

In response, Sergeant Oliver Williams, of the Sudbury community policing team, stated that communication is ongoing between police, Babergh District Council and the site’s owners.

“We know, with the summer holidays, it will attract kids, so we’re doing our best to try to work with the owners to secure the site,” he told the meeting on Tuesday.

“It’s unfortunate that the fire caught hold as much as it did. We’ve got plans in place for how to react as a police force but, with a 22-acre site, sometimes, it’s very difficult.

“A lot of our work will be focused on schools as well. We’re focusing on schools and talking to pupils about how dangerous it can be.”

Last week, Mohammed Asjad, director of Future Properties Holding Ltd, which owns the factory, insisted there was security in place at the premises.

However, he conceded there had been frequent break-ins and thefts of property over the last three years.

Mr Asjad told SuffolkNews that the long-term goal would be to repurpose the disused factory into a mixed industrial, commercial and residential development, with a planned investment of around £40 million.

The proposals could include a mix of light industrial and retail units, homes, retirement living accommodation, a community hub and a bowling green.

He explained that a formal planning application is hoped to be submitted in the next three to six months.

A spokesman for Babergh District Council added that, along with police, they are continuing to engage with the building’s owner to find a way forward for the site.

“We continue to share the community's concern and frustration about the former Delphi site,” the spokesman said.

“The recent fire reinforces the need for its future to be resolved as soon as possible.

“We have recently met the owner to discuss the next steps he needs to take to progress discussions for the site, including appointment of a marketing agent to attract new commercial uses.

“We also recognise the problems with vandalism and criminal behaviour.

“Our community safety team has been liaising with local police, the owner and nearby businesses as a result.”

The blaze at the former Delphi factory was extinguished following intervention from almost 20 fire crews – but not before causing significant damage to the building.

The teenage boy arrested in connection with the fire has been released on bail, on the condition of returning to police on July 6.