Residents evacuated after Rochdale mill fire

Date published: 14 August 2018


Residents surrounding a major mill fire in Rochdale had to be evacuated from their homes and a Magistrates court opened as a rest centre while crews battled to gain control of the blaze.

It was shortly before 10.35pm last night (Monday) when reports came in of a fire at a building on Greenfield Lane in Rochdale.

Crews using a number of covering jets, two aerial platforms and specialist vehicles have been used to try and tackle the fire which is thought to have been contained within one building and not spread to any surrounding properties.

Local residents were evacuated from their homes during the night with Bury and Rochdale Magistrates’ Court opening as a rest centre, however those ordered to leave their homes have now been allowed to return.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service are still concerned about a 40-meter chimney which is at the centre of the building.

Officer in Charge, Group Manager Paul Starling, said: “We are making great progress at the scene and due to the brilliant work of our firefighters, we have surrounded the fire and contained it to the curtilage of the building.

“The chimney in the centre of the building is insecure but we are monitoring the stability and are ensuring crews are kept at a safe distance.

“The air unit is monitoring the fire from height to ensure there is no fire spread to nearby properties and we are going to be reducing the incident to five fire engines shortly.”

A number of roads surrounding the fire have been closed including one side of Queensway between Dicken Green and Oldham Road, which is expected to cause major disruption during the morning rush hour.

Milkstone Road and Well I’ Th Lane also remain closed.

Mr Starling added: “There is smoke in the area so if you live locally, please ensure windows and doors are closed. We are working closely with our partners to bring the fire under control so please avoid the area.”

Fire crews are expected to remain at the scene for much of today (Tuesday) while they work to put the fire out.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service have said they’ll be looking into the cause of the blaze once it’s been extinguished. However, at this stage, the cause remains unknown.


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