Smoke billowed over the M58 motorway on Tuesday morning after a fire broke out at a commercial building in Bickerstaffe, Lancashire. The blaze, which started at 6:16 am on June 30, prompted a large emergency response involving ten fire engines from across the county.
Firefighting Response
Crews from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service used breathing apparatus, three jets, and one stinger to combat the flames. Additional resources included a water tank from Leyland, an aerial ladder platform from Preston, the welfare unit from Bispham, the hose layer from South Shore, and a drone. The fire is believed to have occurred on a small industrial estate on Rainford Road, just off junction three of the M58.
Smoke Visible for Miles
The smoke was visible from the Concourse Shopping Centre in Skelmersdale, approximately four miles away. Aerial photographs shared with the Liverpool ECHO showed thick smoke rising over the motorway. As of 11:16 am, six fire engines remained at the scene, with firefighters continuing to tackle the blaze.
Public Safety Advice
The fire service urged residents who can see or smell smoke to keep windows and doors closed. They also advised drone operators not to fly in the area to avoid interfering with emergency operations.
Traffic Impact
Traffic on the M58 slip road at junction three, leading to Rainford Road, was slow just after 9 am but had returned to normal by late morning. Traffic on the motorway itself was unaffected.
