Fire crews remain on scene of scrapyard fire

Date published: 24 May 2020

Following a massive fire at a scrapyard in Sparthbottoms, Rochdale yesterday (Saturday 23 May 2020), crews from Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service (GMFRS) remain at the scene, though they say that the fire itself is all but out.

• www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/134645/breaking-fire-at-scrapyard-in-sparthbottoms

Station Manager Andy Hardman, in charge at the scene, said: "I am pleased to say GMFRS now has this incident completely under control. Those firefighters still here at the scene are engaged in aiming water onto two final sectors of the fire site, damping down and making sure there are no further flare-ups.

"The fire has burned through a large area containing scrap metal and cars which includes a 100m by 20m single storey workshop, which was consumed by the flames. Its corrugated metal roof has burned through.

"GMFRS has ensured the vast majority of water run-off has been into drains, keeping the nearby River Roch as clear from pollution as possible.

"There is still a little smoke in the air so I would still ask nearby residents to keep their homes' windows and doors closed. Norman Road remains closed to traffic so we would ask drivers to seek alternative routes. I would like to thank local people for their co-operation and support at this incident throughout the night, as well as colleagues from the Environment Agency, Greater Manchester Police and North West Ambulance Service."

GMFRS will remain at the scene throughout the rest of the day.