Crews tackle fire at derelict building in Leigh
Nearby residents advised to keep windows and doors closed
Last updated 7th Feb 2026
Emergency crews remain on the scene of a large fire at a derelict church in Leigh.
It broke out just before 11pm last night at what is understood to be the former Christian Life Church building on Wilds Passage.
Flames could be seen from far afield, with smoke bellowing from the town centre site, just off Ellesmere Street, close to the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.
A number of roads remain cordoned off in the area.
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “At around 10.50pm on Friday 6 February, six fire engines from across Greater Manchester and an aerial appliance attended a fire involving a derelict church on Ellesmere Street, Leigh.
“Crews arrived quickly and used five jets and two turntable ladders to bring the fire under control.
"Greater Manchester Police managed cordons around the area and evacuated nearby residents. North West Ambulance Service also attended in a supportive capacity.
"Firefighters remain on scene this morning.”
In videos shared on social media, flames can be scene coming from the building with thick smoke bellowing into the sky.
Concerns were raised about the threat of the fire spreading, although that risk appears to have passed.
In a post put out this morning on a Facebook page used by Wigan and Leigh Police, a spokesperson said:
"There are no reported injuries. Emergency services will continue to be in the area for the foreseeable.
"A number of road closures are in place including King Street from the junctions of Spinning Jenny Way/ Twist Lane to the end of the road bridge over the canal where King Street merges to St Helens Road.
"Ellesmere Street at the junction of Spinning Jenny Way is also closed off.
"Please be mindful of these and avoid the area where possible. "