Former Carcraft building on fire

Date published: 30 November 2016

The former Carcraft showroom on Nixon Street in Castleton is on fire.

Six fire engines, two aerial platform vehicles, the technical response unit, the major rescue unit, a hose laying lorry and a number of other specialist command vehicles are at the huge blaze.

GMFRS got a call just before 7.00pm. A spokesperson said: "The building is derelict and there are no suggestions that anyone is inside.

"Around 40 firefighters and officers are using jets to put water onto the fire from four sectors established to tackle the blaze from outside the building. Crew are wearing dust masks and the air unit has been deployed to get an aerial view of the fire." 

There is a lot of acrid smoke in the area and residents are advised to keep doors and windows closed.

One nearby resident told Rochdale Online that until recently there had been security on site but that had changed this week. 

Photo: Cameron Lister

Photo: GMFRS Air Unit

Photo: GMFRS

Update at 10.45pm

Firefighting efforts have passed the 'dynamic' stage and crew are now 'on top of' the fire.

Firefighters operating an aerial appliance - which allows them to jet water into the building from above - have reported it is having a positive effect on the fire. They are pumping water from Rochdale Canal.

Some resources are beginning to be released from the scene.

Electricity North West, the National Grid Gas, United Utilities and Rochdale Borough Council all have staff in attendance and there have been hazard material and environmental assessments carried out. The gas supply to the property had previously been capped off.

Crew expect to be in attendance throughout the night.

Former Carcraft building on fire
©Natasha Fitzpatrick