Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Monday 31st March 2025, at 08:15hrs
Blackburn was shrouded in smoke overnight as a large fire erupted at Tensar Manufacturing business on Shadsworth Industrial Estate, prompting a significant response from emergency services.
Ten fire engines, specialized equipment, and a firefighting robot were deployed to combat the blaze, which could be seen for miles around.
Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service (LFRS) confirmed that the fire, involving plastics, produced a “significant smoke plume” that affected the local area. Residents and businesses were urgently advised to keep their windows and doors closed to avoid inhaling the potentially harmful smoke.
“Firefighters are working hard to extinguish the fire and stop it spreading to a nearby building on the site,” stated an LFRS spokesperson in an initial update.
The sheer scale of the fire necessitated the use of two aerial ladder platforms, a water tower, a high volume pump, and a drone to monitor the situation from above.
As the night progressed, firefighters made significant progress in containing the blaze. “Firefighting has reduced the size of the fire and amount of smoke, and the number of fire engines has been reduced to six. The special appliances remain at the incident,” LFRS later reported.
Despite the intensity of the fire, Lancashire Police confirmed that there were no reported injuries. However, the incident caused significant disruption to the surrounding area. Haslingden Road, a key route leading to Royal Blackburn Hospital, was reduced to a single lane, prompting police to advise drivers to seek alternative routes.
“You may have heard about us assisting our fire service colleagues following a large fire in Blackburn overnight and we want to bring you an update,” said a Lancashire Police spokesperson.
“Shortly before 1am, we received a report from the fire service of a large fire on Shadsworth Industrial Estate. Emergency Services are in attendance, including police. Thankfully, there have been no reported injuries.”
While access to businesses within the industrial park remained open, some disruption was unavoidable due to the ongoing emergency operations. Local schools and Royal Blackburn Teaching Hospital remained fully operational.
LFRS reiterated their advice to residents to keep windows and doors closed and to avoid the area if possible.
A multi-agency response, involving LFRS, Lancashire Police, and other partners, is working to bring the incident to a swift and safe conclusion.
Updates will be provided as the situation evolves.
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