Residents near Glodwick Lows in Oldham have been urged to avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed following a massive fire that broke out on Tuesday evening. The blaze at a building near the nature reserve started around 8:25 pm on June 23, prompting five fire engines from across Greater Manchester to race to the scene. Thick black smoke billowed into the air, visible from as far away as Denton.
Firefighters Make Significant Progress Overnight
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) crews worked through the night to extinguish the flames. In an update on Wednesday morning, a GMFRS spokesperson said: "Our crews have made significant progress overnight in extinguishing the building fire at Glodwick Lows, Oldham. Firefighters remain at the scene on Wednesday morning (24 June) damping down hotspots and making the area safe. Residents are still advised to avoid the area."
Witness Reports Explosions
A witness reported hearing 'explosions' coming from the site of the fire. A cordon was put in place on Roundthorn Road as crews used breathing apparatus and two hose reel jets to tackle the blaze. The fire service initially urged residents to close windows and doors and avoid the area due to the smoke plume.
Ongoing Response and Safety Advice
As of Wednesday morning, crews remain on scene damping down hotspots. Residents are still advised to avoid the area. The cause of the fire is not yet known, and investigations are likely to follow once the scene is made safe.
