Incredible aerial pictures have revealed the devastating aftermath of a huge fire that broke out at a recycling facility in Widnes, Cheshire, on Monday evening. The blaze, which involved hundreds of tonnes of cardboard waste, spread rapidly through the single-storey building at Fresco Recycling on Everite Road, within the Towngate Business Centre industrial estate.
Major Incident Declared and Response
More than 20 fire engines responded to the incident, with assistance from Greater Manchester, Lancashire, North Wales, and Merseyside. Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service declared a major incident shortly after the fire was reported at around 4:30pm. The fire engulfed an estimated 450 tonnes of the 550 total tonnes of waste stored at the site, sending an enormous plume of black smoke visible more than 30 miles away, including across parts of Greater Manchester.
Firefighting Efforts and Road Closures
Fire crews initially fought the blaze from outside due to the risk of the building collapsing. Surrounding roads were closed, and residents were urged to keep windows and doors closed. The fire was brought under control after several hours, but crews remained at the scene overnight. By 7am Tuesday, Cheshire Fire Service confirmed the major incident had been stood down before midnight, with attendance scaled back to three fire engines and three special appliances from Cheshire, plus one from Greater Manchester. Road closures remained in place, and motorists were advised to check routes before traveling.
Final Phase of Firefighting
At 10am, the fire service stated: 'We have six crews still at the scene, who are beginning the final phase of firefighting. This involves working with on-site personnel to excavate the smouldering debris to allow us to extinguish remaining pockets of fire. This will create some additional smoke for a short time.' Aerial images captured by Ian Cank Aerial Photography showed small pockets of smoke rising from the site, which appeared almost completely destroyed.
Health Advice for Residents
The UK Health Security Agency North West advised that smoke can be an irritant. Residents in affected areas were told to stay indoors, keep doors and windows closed. Motorists traveling through the area should keep windows closed, turn off air conditioning, and close air vents. 'Ventilating your home is important when smoke is not present. If you cannot see or smell smoke, open windows and doors to let in fresh air. However, if smoke returns to your area, return inside and close all windows and doors until it has visibly cleared,' the agency said. Anyone experiencing symptoms such as coughing or breathlessness should contact their GP or call NHS 111. In an emergency, call 999.
