Middleton Storage World fire leaves gym owner facing uncertain future

Wednesday, 20 August 2025 08:56

By David Murphy

Two months after a huge fire tore through Middleton Storage World, one local business owner is still waiting to find out if he will ever recover the equipment he invested thousands of pounds in.

Michael Wing To, 35, who runs gym and fitness company Physical and Nutrition, had been operating from one of the facility’s external units since 2023 after spending £10,000 fitting it out.

He says he has been left “really, really upset” by the ordeal and is “struggling to cope” as he waits for news on whether he can access his equipment. Drone footage suggested some items may have survived the blaze, but the uncertainty has left him frustrated.

“The business was growing well,” he said. “Since this has happened, we’ve just been going back and forth with management. One minute we’re told nothing is salvageable, then that some things are. The goal post is constantly getting moved.”

Mr Wing To was inside the building when the fire alarm went off in June. He escaped unharmed but was forced to watch as flames tore through the site.

The facility’s operator, Storage World, has faced criticism from unit holders over communication since the blaze. Mr Wing To said he felt trust had been broken: “They preach about community and supporting each other, but it doesn’t feel that way now.”

Rennie Schafer, chief executive of the Self Storage Association UK, which has been representing Storage World in the aftermath, confirmed that the building has been condemned and is being demolished.

He explained that demolition crews are working alongside salvage teams in an attempt to recover belongings where possible. Items deemed safe will be returned to customers.

“It is very sensitive, and people’s livelihoods are tied up in this,” Mr Schafer said. “But safety is our number one priority. Parts of the building could collapse at any minute, there is water damage and asbestos has been found.”

He stressed that while salvage is more likely for ground floor units, the situation is being assessed “day by day” and no firm timescale can yet be given.