FOURTEEN crews are battling a large fire which has sent plumes of smoke over swathes of East Lancashire.
Roads have been closed off as emergency services work to tackle a fire which has broken out the J H Birtwistle Mill on Jubilee Road in Haslingden.
The Grane Road and surrounding access routes in the area have been closed off for the foreseeable.
Some living in the immediate area have been evacuated from their home.
Crews were first called to the scene shortly after 12.30, where they found a fire in a commercial mill.
A spokesman said: “The fire was well developed and a further eleven fire engines were requested to assist with firefighting operations.
Currently assisting at a fire incident on Grane road. Some of the roads have been blocked. Please avoid the area if possible.
— Rossendale Police (@RssndalePolice) January 7, 2021
“There are currently 14 fire engines in attendance including an aerial ladder platform and stinger appliance. Firefighters are tackling the fire using eight jets and a ground monitor.
“Due to the large smoke plume being produced by the fire residents living close by are being advised to close their windows and doors as a precaution.”
A police spokesman confirmed that the Grane Road had been closed off, saying: “We are currently dealing with a large fire at the bottom of the Grane Road near the A56 and Grane Road is currently closed off. Avoid this area if you can and we will let you know as soon as we can re-open it. Please let others know to avoid it if they are likely to use the road.”
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 The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.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