Around 45 homes were evacuated earlier today as firefighters tackled a huge blaze at an industrial site in Saddleworth.
Huge plumes of smoke rose over Greenfield for most of Sunday (August 16) as Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service tackled the fire, at an industrial building near to the Tesco supermarket.
People living on neighbouring streets Knoll Close and Wellington Road were asked to leave their homes as a precaution, the MEN understands.
Evacuation centre opens
Those who were evacuated were taken to the Satellite Centre on Wellington Road as emergency services worked throughout the day. Around 15 people used the centre during the day, which offered water and food to anyone affected.
Trustee and Ward Councillor Ellen Bishop, said: “All together we’ve probably had ten to fifteen people come in.
“I was surprised by it this morning. I was woken up by people asking if we could open up the centre so people could come in.
She added: “We’ve had people coming down for water and food. We’ve been feeding people and liaising with the emergency services and bringing them drinks. We’re just providing people a bit of a hub really but things have calmed down a bit now.”
Other residents in the area told the Manchester Evening News that they made their way to the centre because their water supplies had been cut off due to the fire.
Fire service response
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “Just after 7.45am on Sunday 16 August, fire crews were called to reports of a fire at an industrial building on Chew Valley Road, Greenfield.
“10 fire engines and a number of specialist appliances from across Greater Manchester are now in attendance, with firefighters working hard to bring the fire under control.
“Due to the amount of smoke, nearby residents are advised to keep their windows and doors closed. A cordon is in place and people should avoid the area if possible.”
