A major fire at the former Fiddlers Ferry Power Station in Cheshire prompted a significant emergency response involving dozens of firefighters and specialist appliances.
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS) received reports of a fire at approximately 1pm on 15 October at the decommissioned site on Widnes Road, Cuerdley Cross, near Warrington.
The former coal fired power station closed in 2020 and is undergoing demolition and redevelopment.
Firefighters deployed from 11 stations
Crews from 11 fire stations attended the incident, supported by Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service.
Specialist equipment included an aerial ladder platform, high reach extendable turret, high volume pump and command unit.
The fire involved a large industrial hopper, with flames and thick smoke visible from the affected structure.
Residents nearby were advised to take precautions because of smoke.
Crews contain fire within chimney structure
By 2pm, firefighters had established inner and outer cordons, secured water supplies and confirmed that all personnel on site were accounted for.
CFRS reported that the fire appeared to be contained within a chimney area.
The aerial ladder platform delivered water to elevated sections, while the high reach extendable turret supported extinguishing operations.
By 3pm, a nearby road closure had been lifted as conditions improved and resources were gradually reduced.
Thermal imaging supports overnight operations
Firefighters remained overnight to monitor conditions and extinguish remaining hotspots.
On 16 October, sections of the structure were removed to improve access for firefighting equipment.
Thermal imaging cameras were deployed to identify hotspots, while relief crews continued dampening operations.
By the afternoon, efforts focused on removing part of the tower roof to allow drone surveys.
Investigation into fire cause continues
An investigation remains ongoing, although CFRS has indicated that the fire is believed to have started accidentally.
CFRS, “Areas of the building were removed, allowing the high reach extendable turret to continue dampening down. Thermal imaging cameras were used to check for hotspots. Relief crews are in place.”
