Shoppers and homeowners evacuated as fire breaks out on industrial estate

By KATHERINE LAWTON, SENIOR NEWS REPORTER Published: 12:15, 16 August 2026 | Updated: 12:21, 16 August 2026 Shoppers and homeowners have been evacuated after a huge fire broke out on an industrial estate.  Emergency services rushed to the scene in Saddleworth, Greater Manchester, in the early hours of this morning.  Residents and shoppers have been ordered to avoid the area and keep their windows and doors closed, amid fears of toxic fumes.  Footage taken from a Tesco superstore car park shows a huge plume of black smoke rising into the sky.  Around 45 properties on nearby streets have been evacuated as a precaution while emergency services investigate.  A specialist environmental unit has arrived, with reports of toxic materials in the area.  It is expected that firefighters will remain at the scene for much of today as the response continues.  A spokesperson for Tesco said: 'Our Greenfield Superstore is temporarily closed due to a fire nearby. We apologise for the inconvenience.'  Firefighters tackling a blaze at an industrial site in Greenfield, Saddleworth, today  A huge plume of black smoke rises into the sky near a Tesco superstore today  Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said: 'Just after 7.45am on Sunday 16 August, fire crews were called to reports of a fire at an industrial building on Chew Valley Road, Greenfield. '10 fire engines and a number of specialist appliances from across Greater Manchester are now in attendance, with firefighters working hard to bring the fire under control. 'Due to the amount of smoke, nearby residents are advised to keep their windows and doors closed. 'A cordon is in place and people should avoid the area if possible.' The Daily Mail has contacted Greater Manchester Police for more information.