A huge fire ripped through Raikes Clough industrial estate in Bolton in the early hours of Friday morning, March 13. The sky was lit up as fire crews battled the scrap metal inferno that broke out around 2:30am.
Fire Crews Race to Tackle Scrap Metal Inferno
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue swiftly dispatched six fire engines from four local stations — Bolton, Farnworth, Atherton, and Bolton North — alongside an aerial appliance and a high-volume pump. They arrived to find a massive pile of scrap metal blazing fiercely.
“Crews have been working hard through the night to bring the fire under control and stop it spreading,”
said a fire service spokesperson. “They used handheld jets and a ground monitor to contain the flames. Thankfully, no casualties have been reported.”
Residents Urged to Stay Clear and Keep Windows Shut
The fire is still active with crews on site making the area safe. Support teams from Greater Manchester Police, the Environment Agency, and Bolton Council are also assisting.
Due to heavy smoke, locals have been advised to keep all windows and doors closed and avoid the area entirely. Road closures are in effect.
Travel alert: Raikes Lane remains shut in both directions between Aqueduct Road and Burnden Road because of the fire service activity.
Stay tuned for updates as firefighters continue to douse the blaze and secure the industrial estate.
