AN investigation into the cause of a huge blaze at a chemical plant in Middlewich is underway.
Shortly after 8.30pm on Monday night, a total of 12 fire crews were called to BIP Organics in Brooks Lane and spent the night tackling a large fire involving palletised containers.
The amount of smoke meant residents were advised to close their windows and doors as a precaution and several roads were closed around Middlewich town centre.
At 8.45am on Tuesday, a spokesperson from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the fire was no longer classed as a major incident and an investigation could begin.
A spokesperson said: “One fire engine remains at the scene while crews liaise with partner agencies about the management of chemicals involved in the fire.
“An investigation into the cause of the blaze will now begin.
“There is no smoke plume and residents can now open windows and doors and go outside.
“Brooks Lane will reopen later this morning.
“This has been a challenging incident for Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, with a significant number of fire engines and firefighters committed during one of the warmest nights on record.
“However, the fire has been extinguished skilfully and successfully, without spreading to nearby properties.
“The major incident has now been closed.”
A statement from Cheshire Police added: “Although the large fire in Brooks Lane, Middlewich, has been extinguished by firefighters, there is a smell of chemicals in the area as a result of the incident and reduced road closures remain in place.”
At its height, 12 fire engines were at the scene, along with an aerial ladder platform, a Scorpion high reach turret, an environmental protection unit and a high-volume pump.
The high-volume pump was placed by a nearby canal to draw large quantities of water onto the blaze, while the high turret was used to reach remaining pockets of fire.
Firefighters finally extinguished the blaze 10 hours after it was first reported – at 6.30am.
At this time, two fire engines remained at the scene to monitor products on the site.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here