Bury town centre disruption continues amid 36-hour standoff
Police say efforts are focused on reaching a safe conclusion
Emergency services remain in Bury town centre more than 36 hours after police were first called to reports of concern for welfare at a shopping centre car park.
Greater Manchester Police said officers were called at around 11pm on Tuesday 26th May 2026 to Goodall Street.
Road closures and disruption have remained in place while emergency services continue working at the scene.
Police said their priority is reaching a safe conclusion safely while minimising disruption to nearby businesses, workers and visitors.
In a statement, Greater Manchester Police said: “While this remains ongoing, our priority is the welfare of the woman and working towards a safe conclusion.
“We understand the disruption this has caused to nearby residents, workers, businesses and visitors. Resources and emergency services are at the scene to resolve this safely.
“We are aware this is a recurring incident, and we continue to work with other services to avoid a repeat and prevent further disruption.”
Police issue update on ongoing situation
Superintendent Phil Spurgeon, from GMP’s Bury district, said officers had remained at the scene throughout the day and night alongside other emergency services and health professionals.
He said: “Our officers have remained at the scene throughout the day and night with negotiators, GMFRS, NWAS and health professionals to work towards a safe conclusion.
“We are aware of concerns around the recent high temperatures and the length of time the woman has been up there; our priority is her welfare and bringing her to safety.
“We understand frustrations due to the disruption this has caused for nearby residents, workers and businesses, but our immediate priority is a safe conclusion.
“We have resources at the scene to try to minimise any disruption and return the town centre to business as usual as soon as it is safe to do so.”