A derelict north Manchester pub has gone up in flames twice in a matter of weeks. The site, formerly the New White Lion pub in Blackley, has seen fire crews rush to put out roaring fires twice in the space of just two weeks.
The former pub and B&B, which last closed its doors in 2010 according to CAMRA, has reportedly been a 'magnet' for antisocial behaviour over the past 12 years since its closure. Emergency services raced to the site, on Middleton Old Road yesterday, May 11, after smoke was seen billowing from the roof.
And just two weeks before, on April 27, fire crews were pictured once again in attendance at the building, putting out yet another blaze which had started on the upper floor.
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Police cordoned off Middleton Old Road, as well as Old Market Street - the junction leading to Blackley village, for much of the afternoon on Wednesday (May 11) before later lifting the closure at around 3pm. It was at around 8pm on April 27 that multiple fire engines were spotted at the scene tackling yet another fire at the pub.
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service have confirmed they dispelled the fires on both occasions - with no indication yet being given as to how they started. Greater Manchester Police have been approached for information on this.
Pictures from the dramatic scene on Wednesday show clouds of smoke billowing from the roof of the former pub, which still has the windows completely boarded up. The road was closed off shortly after midday, with crews tackling the blaze for around three hours.
And just two weeks before, on April 27, the scenes were much the same - thick clouds of smoke were seen escaping from the roof as fire crews remained on scene. Harpurhey Councillor Pat Karney said the site has become a 'magnet' for antisocial behaviour since it's closure, but it has not yet been confirmed that these incidents are related to the fires.
Cllr Karney said: "The pub has been abandoned for so long and is an eyesore which brings the area down. Councillors will be meeting with the brewery because this cannot go on.
"It is about time something was done and the building came down, because it is attracting young people and becoming a hub for antisocial behaviour. I am very concerned about the safety of those involved and living nearby."
On Wednesday, a spokesperson for the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said: “At around 12:10pm on Wednesday 11 May, we were called out to reports of a fire at a derelict building on Old Market Street in Blackley. Three fire engines from Philips Park, Chadderton and Heywood, as well as an aerial ladder platform from Oldham, were in attendance.
"Crews used two hose reels, four breathing apparatus and a thermal imaging camera in getting the fire under control." Greater Manchester Police have been approached for further information.
