Major Fire at Blackburn Factory Now Being Treated as Arson, Police Confirm
A significant fire that tore through a factory in Blackburn is now being investigated as a deliberate act, Lancashire Police have confirmed.
The blaze broke out in the early hours of May at Tensar Manufacturing Ltd, located on the Shadsworth Business Park. The alarm was raised shortly after midnight, prompting an immediate and large-scale response from emergency services. Firefighters from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service were first on the scene and quickly called for additional support as the scale of the fire became apparent.
At the height of the incident, ten fire engines, two aerial ladder platforms, a high-volume pump, a water tower, and a specialist firefighting robot were deployed to tackle the inferno. A drone was also used to provide aerial assessments and monitor the spread of the flames from above.
Plumes of thick smoke could be seen billowing into the night sky from miles around as firefighters worked tirelessly to bring the blaze under control. Local residents were advised to keep their windows and doors shut due to the heavy smoke. Roads surrounding the business park were cordoned off, and access to the site was restricted for several hours.
Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that crews remained on site for most of the day to damp down remaining hotspots and ensure the fire did not reignite. Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries, and the factory was unoccupied at the time the fire started.
An initial investigation into the cause of the fire was launched, with forensic teams and fire investigators examining the scene in the days that followed. Lancashire Police have now confirmed that the fire is being treated as arson.
In a statement issued earlier today, a spokesperson for Lancashire Police said:
*”Following a joint investigation with Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, we can confirm that we are now treating the fire at Tensar Manufacturing Ltd as arson. We are appealing to the public for any information that could help us with our enquiries. This was a serious incident that caused significant damage and disruption, and we are determined to find those responsible.”*
Officers are now reviewing CCTV footage from the area and are urging anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity or who has dashcam footage from around the time of the incident to come forward.
A representative from Tensar Manufacturing Ltd expressed relief that no staff were harmed but described the damage as “devastating.” The company, known for producing geogrid technology used in construction and civil engineering projects, has assured customers and partners that they are working hard to minimise disruptions.
Local councillors have also responded, calling for increased security measures at industrial estates and urging the community to support the investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Lancashire Police on 101 quoting log number 98 of the date of the fire, or to provide information anonymously via Crimestoppers.
Investigations are ongoing.
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