Blackburn fire: Massive inferno breaks out sending plumes of thick smoke into the sky after loud explosions heard
A MASSIVE fire has raged through an industrial estate in a large town sending plumes of thick smoke into the sky.
Firefighters raced to the blaze on Sett End Road West, in the southeast of Blackburn, in the early hours of the morning.
Residents were told to keep windows and doors shut as explosions were heard at Shadsworth Business Park.
Ten fire engines and a firefighting robot were sent to tackle the inferno.
Haslingden Road, which connects the area to the M65 and central Blackburn, was closed until around 4am.
It has now partially reopened but only has one lane available to allow the fire service to use their equipment.
Lancashire Constabulary posted on Facebook: “We want to provide an update.
“Haslingden Road is now open however is down to one lane in order for the fire service to use their equipment.
“At the moment Shadsworth Industrial Estate remains closed whilst the fire service tackle the fire. Please avoid this area if you can.”
A spokesperson for Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said: “We have 10 fire engines, two aerial ladder platforms and a firefighting robot at a commercial building fire on Sett End Road West, Blackburn.
“Firefighters were called at 00:45 and a number of roads are closed in the local area.
“There is also a large smoke plume and anyone who can see or smell smoke is strongly advised to close windows and doors.
“No injuries have been reported.”
Incident Commander Tom Cookson said: “The fire is now under control and surrounded.
“The number of fire engines will be reduced during the morning but we expect to have firefighters here for the rest of the day.
“Local roads have been reopened but Haslingden Road will be busy during the rush hour periods as all vehicles need to use ramps to cross the hoses that are currently crossing the road.
“We are still advising local residents, businesses and drivers to keep windows and doors shut in the area.
“If you notice any small black deposits from the smoke, we advise people to wash them away using a regular garden hose.”