A huge blaze continues to rage at a Bredbury recycling centre today, after a waste pile is believed to have self-combusted yesterday.
Around 50 firemen are battling to contain the flames while police officers assist with road closures.
Images show giant flames leaping up from the industrial park and thick plumes of smoke eclipsing the skyline.
The large fire, which has destroyed more than 1,000 sq metres of waste, was originally targeted with five fire engines and an aerial appliance – yet a further five engines were brought in to tackle the blaze.
Area Manager Sean Booth said: “We will certainly be here for longer than today. There is a large smoke plume going into the air and moving towards Tameside.
“The smoke plume is not affecting the motorway but please take care when in the area.
“We were faced by a rapidly developing fire at a site of about 100m by 100m when we arrived after 9pm last night and have been working at the scene all night.
“Because of the efforts overnight, we were able to contain the fire and have been able to lift some of the road closures and restrictions that were put in place.”
There were a small number of evacuations at around 9.25pm on last night.
The extent of the flames on Stockport Road West meant that initial fire crews could not contain the blaze and further assistance was called for.
There are no reports of any injuries after officers cordoned off the area and advised nearby residents to close doors and windows.
After working hard throughout the night crews managed to contain the fire and have been able to lift a number of the restrictions that were put in place.
Councillor Iain Roberts praised the work the fire services have done so far.
“I’d like to thank the fire crews who have been working overnight to bring the blaze at the Bredbury recycling centre under control,” he tweeted.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area although Ashton Road has reopened as far as the roundabout at the motorway junction.
Businesses within the estate are open as usual but access is limited.
Old Moor Road is affected by the smoke plume and fire fighting operations and as a result access is limited to essential access for businesses only.
Whitefield Road is also open for limited access for businesses.
Pictures courtesy of GMFRS, with thanks.
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