Fire tears through Rochdale garage as residents told to avoid area

Friday, 14 November 2025 09:52

By David Murphy

A large emergency response remains in place after a commercial garage fire in Rochdale forced major road closures early on Friday morning.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service was called to Mellor Street, near Rochdale town centre, at 3.15am on 14 November following reports of a serious blaze at a commercial premises. Three fire engines from Rochdale and Heywood, along with a hydraulic platform from Oldham, attended the scene.

Crews used two ultra high pressure lances and two hose reels to extinguish the fire. A cordon was put in place across Mellor Street and College Road, with Greater Manchester Police and North West Ambulance Service also in attendance.

The building, believed to be Mellor Street Garage, has suffered visible roof damage. Firefighters and emergency responders remain at the location this morning to ensure the area is safe.

Images from the scene show the roof of the garage severely damaged and large sections of the area taped off to traffic and pedestrians. College Road and Mellor Street remain shut, with traffic being diverted and heavy congestion reported on surrounding roads, including Spotland Road, Edenfield Road, Manchester Road and Dane Street.

GMFRS urged the public to stay away from the area. A spokesperson said:

"Crews remain at the scene alongside partners, with road closures in place, to ensure the area is safe."

The number of people injured in the incident has not yet been confirmed. There are reports that several people may have sustained injuries, but no further details have been released.

An investigation into the cause of the fire is expected to follow once the site has been fully secured and made safe.