A massive fire at a waste recycling plant in Widnes, Cheshire, has been compared to a war zone after 450 tonnes of waste ignited, sending a thick plume of smoke across the north west and triggering loud explosions. Emergency services from Cheshire, Merseyside, Greater Manchester, and Lancashire rushed to the scene at Fresco Environmental on Everite Road shortly before 4:30 p.m. on June 22.
Resident Describes 'World War 3' Scene
Debbie Couzens, 61, who has lived in the area for over 30 years, told the Liverpool Echo: "It was like it was the middle of the night the smoke was that thick. We've never experienced anything like it before." She added: "It was like something out of World War 3, you just hear the gas canisters going up [in flames]." The fire caused multiple gas canister explosions, audible across the neighbourhood.
Evacuations and Road Closures
Several roads, including Ditchfield Road, were closed, and properties on the nearby housing estate were evacuated. Residents were advised to stay indoors with windows and doors closed. A major incident was declared by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service but was scaled back before midnight, with firefighters remaining on site to dampen down the debris.
Firefighting Efforts Continue
In a 11 a.m. update on June 23, a Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "We have six crews still at the scene, who are beginning the final phase of firefighting. This involves working with on-site personnel to excavate the smouldering debris to allow us to extinguish remaining pockets of fire. This will create some additional smoke for a short time." Water hoses and jets were used continuously on the burnt-out building.
Health Advice for Residents
The UK Health Security Agency North West warned that smoke can be an irritant. Residents were advised to stay indoors, keep doors and windows closed, and motorists should keep windows up and air conditioning off. Anyone experiencing coughing or breathlessness should contact their GP or call NHS 111. In an emergency, call 999.
Cause Under Investigation
The cause of the fire remains unclear. Superintendent Sam Billington urged the public not to congregate at the scene to avoid hampering emergency response. The Liverpool Echo has approached Fresco Environmental for comment.
