Huge blaze at storage world in Middleton

A storage facility in Middleton caught fire around 4:50pm Wednesday 18th June 2025.

Storage World Fire Middleton | MTN

People are being advised to avoid a Middleton storage unit where firefighters have started a second day of dealing with a fire.

Emergency services have been fighting a blaze at the Storage World unit on Old Hall Street since approximately 4:50 pm on Wednesday afternoon (June 18).

Crews worked throughout the night to bring the blaze under control, and they are still on the scene this morning (Thursday).

Six fire engines are currently present, along with specialist fire and rescue appliances, police, and United Utilities.

Clouds of smoke coming out of a fire exit | MTN

In a statement issued this morning, Storage World has urged customers to keep away from the building, with the firm promising to contact customers with an update as soon as possible.

A company spokesperson said: "Our Middleton store has suffered a serious fire. Authorities are currently in attendance and we will be contacting customers as soon as the situation has settled and we can assess the damage. This will be no later than Friday afternoon.

"Please do not contact us directly but wait for us to communicate with you, as this will allow us to manage the current situation and ensure all customers are given accurate information as soon as possible.

"More information will also be posted here when available. Please do not visit the store as it is cordoned off by the fire services and customers will not be able to access it for some time. "We appreciate this will be a stressful and distressing situation for our customers. We are doing everything in our power to assist authorities and provide accurate information as soon as possible."

Residents living close to the scene are being urged to keep their windows and doors closed for a second day since the blaze broke out. A Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "Crews have worked hard overnight to contain the fire at the commercial premises on Old Hall Street, Middleton. “Six fire engines, the aerial unit and scorpion remain in attendance to tackle pockets of fire and make the building safe in challenging conditions. Road closures remain in place with nearby residents advised to keep their doors and windows shut." Follow  Manchester Today on Facebook, and Instagram. Send your story ideas to Newsdesk@ManchesterToday.org.uk