Mill fire sparks concerns over derelict buildings

Wigan residents are being warned to stay away from derelict buildings following a large fire this morning.
Flames coming from the roof of Pagefield MillFlames coming from the roof of Pagefield Mill
Flames coming from the roof of Pagefield Mill

At around 11.20am fire crews were called to an incident in Bridgeman Terrace.

Crews from Wigan, Hindley, Leigh and Atherton arrived to find a blaze coming from the roof of Pagefield Mill. An aerial appliance from Leigh also attended. The fire is believed to have been started deliberately.

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Station Manager Wayne Van-Hecke said: “Crews did a great job in extinguishing this fire quickly but what people need to realise, is just how dangerous these derelict buildings are.

“We would plea with the public to never go in to derelict buildings as they can be very unsafe with so many hidden hazards. We also know the public would not want to put our crews in situations that have even more risk attached to them than any other emergency, but starting a deliberate fire in a derelict building really is something far more serious than people realise.

“It’s also important to remember that while we’re dealing with a deliberate fire like this, our resources are tied up and it may mean we cannot get as quickly to another emergency where someone’s life is at risk."

Firefighters put the fire out using jets, spending around 90 minutes tackling the blaze.

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Mr Van-Hecke added: “If you ever spot something suspicious on a derelict site, please do contact the police, but most importantly never enter a derelict building in the first place.”

Wigan fire service is continuing to work with the council and police to reduce the risk the site imposes on local residents.

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