Denton fire: Huge warehouse blaze brought under control

21 February 2021, 16:51 | Updated: 22 February 2021, 06:47

Fire breaks out in Manchester warehouse

A warehouse blaze in Denton, Manchester, which at its peak had 125 firefighters battling the flames, has been brought under control.

The 'significant blaze' started in the three-storey building shortly after 1pm on Sunday, and later spread to adjoining units.

People in the surrounding houses were evacuated, but fire officials have confirmed they are now free to return home.

The smoke billowing across Greater Manchester meant the nearby M67 motorway was partly closed in both directions, with diversions in place.

All road closures have now been lifted but residents are still asked to avoid the area.

Area Manager Stewart Forshaw said: “Thanks to the tireless and professional work of our firefighters we are now in control of this incident.

“I would also like to thank the local community for their support and co-operation on what has been a difficult day.“Crews will remain at the scene overnight monitoring the incident and extinguishing the pockets of fire that remain.”

Firefighters laid ground monitor jets to pump a water on to the fire as well as deploying three aerial appliances.

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Speaking at the time of the event, Superintendent Natalie Dixon of Greater Manchester Police, said: "We currently have an evacuation procedure in place to ensure all those in the vicinity of the fire are kept safe.
All those required to evacuate will be contacted by police and we ask that no one leaves their house unless otherwise instructed.

"We are urging all those in the local area to keep their doors and windows closed to ensure they are better protected from any smoke inhalation.

"We are also asking the public to avoid the area where possible."

The fire service urged people to "take extra care if travelling in areas affected by smoke".

In a statement, Highways England added: "There are currently no estimates for how long the closure is likely to remain in place. A number of local roads in the surrounding area are also closed."

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Fire Area Manager, Stewart Forshaw, who was in charge of the incident said: “Around 125 firefighters are working incredibly hard to bring this incident under control.

“The first crews on scene were met with a well-developed fire and more support was quickly mobilised to deal with the blaze.

“The incident is causing a large smoke plume that is affecting the local community and can be seen across the county.

Mr Forshaw added: “It is likely our firefighters will be here throughout the evening and into tomorrow as we continue to deal with this incident.”

This article is being updated.