A major fire broke out in the early hours at a factory located on the Shadsworth Industrial Estate in Blackburn, with approximately 50 firefighters and a robotic unit deployed to tackle the blaze. Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) confirmed the incident began just after 00:30 BST on Sett End Road and involves burning plastics.

The fire sent a large smoke plume into the sky, clearly visible near the Royal Blackburn Teaching Hospital. Explosions were also heard from the site as the fire developed.

Thankfully, no injuries have been reported. LFRS stated the fire was brought under control during the night, but crews remain on scene to continue firefighting operations.

Tom Cookson, Group Manager at LFRS, said:
“Crews were met with a well developed fire involving polypropylene at one of the businesses on the industrial estate.”

He added: “The smoke plume has significantly reduced in the last hour and the fire is surrounded. We're going to be here throughout the day damping down and dealing with hot spots as they flare up.”

Mr Cookson also advised the public:
“We're advising local residents in the area to keep windows and doors shut, likewise to people driving in the area to keep windows shut.”

Blackburn Police reported via Facebook that while the Royal Blackburn Teaching Hospital remains open, Haslingden Road from the M65 to the hospital has been reduced to one lane and is likely to remain restricted for some time.

A previous update from the fire service noted:
“The fire involves plastics and there is a significant smoke plume affecting the local area.”

Authorities continue to monitor the situation and are urging caution as cleanup and safety efforts continue throughout the day.

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