Workers to assess damage at Ferrybridge Power Station

Workers at Ferrybridge Power Station will start assessing the damage of Thursday’s huge blaze tomorrow (Wednesday).
Fire - Ferrybridge Power Station. (W542L430)Fire - Ferrybridge Power Station. (W542L430)
Fire - Ferrybridge Power Station. (W542L430)

The fire, which saw plumes of smoke billow across the Five Towns, has caused the partial collapse of a tower at the plant.

At its height around 100 firefighters tackled 100m high flames coming from the unit, which is used to produce gypsum plasterboard- a bi-product from the power industry.

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A spokesman for SSE, the site’s operators, said: “SSE is continuing to work with the emergency services and other relevant authorities to determine the cause of the incident.

“In addition, work has begun to fully assess the damage caused, and to examine the different options for repair. The assessment process - which is likely to be lengthy - will take place in stages.

“Our number one priority continues to be the safety of all those working on the site, and the local community, as we carry out this assessment and associated works.

“The first stage will begin on Wednesday, August 6 with work to gain access to the affected structure and to remove external cladding.

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“This will enable specialist engineers to fully assess the damage caused. The work will involve some large cranes, which will be arriving on site in the coming days.”

Fire crews left the site yesterday morning and have now formally handed the incident over to SSE.

Martin Langan, group manager, said: “This was an unusual fire to tackle but we were well supported by SSE who had robust emergency plans in place which assisted us. We will be working alongside the company as the investigation progresses.”