A major fire at a recycling facility in Widnes prompted a large-scale response from emergency services on Monday, June 22, creating thick black clouds which could be seen for miles across Merseyside and Cheshire.
Fire crews were called to the blaze at a recycling site on Everite Road last night, responding to reports of a fire involving large quantities of cardboard and other waste.
The incident quickly escalated, forcing emergency services to declare a major incident as the fire spread through more than 450 tonnes of stored waste.
In an official update from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, a spokesperson said: “Owing to the size of the fire and smoke plume, this has now been declared a major incident.”
More than 20 fire engines from Widnes, Runcorn, Warrington, Penketh, Congleton, Norwich and Frodsham were at the scene, with firefighters working throughout the night to contain the flames and prevent the fire from spreading further.
Residents across Widnes, Liverpool, Runcorn and surrounding areas reported seeing black smoke rising into the sky.
Fletcher Roberts said that he could, “see it from over the water in North Wales.”
Ros Seddon had expressed that he had, “seen it driving over the bridge from Runcorn.”
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said their firefighters were operating externally in case of “the risk of the building collapsing.”
Despite the scale of the fire, no injuries were reported.
The fire service confirmed that, “all people are accounted for, and no casualties have been reported.”
Cheshire Police maintained a significant presence in the area to manage traffic and reassure residents.
Superintendent Sam Billington of Cheshire Police said: “A large number of officers are in attendance at the scene to manage road closures and provide reassurance to the community.”
The fire service has since reported that the incident is now, “well under control”.
Investigations into the cause of the fire are expected to begin once the site is declared safe.
Written by Lucy Armour.
