Historic Lodge Mill Gutted by Fire as Investigation Continues

A major fire has left the historic Lodge Mill building severely damaged, with only its outer brick shell still standing in the aftermath.

Lodge Mill - Middleton | Image: Hopwood Radio

Emergency services were called to the scene following reports of a blaze that tore through the former mill, destroying its internal floors and roof. Images taken after the incident show rows of empty, blackened window frames and exposed brickwork, with large sections of the upper structure missing entirely.

Fire crews remain on site as damping-down operations continue, with at least one fire engine and multiple personnel still in attendance. Townley Street remains closed, with police maintaining a cordon while investigators assess the cause of the fire.

Lodge Mill - Middleton | Image: Hopwood Radio

The building, a prominent red-brick industrial structure marked by its tall chimney stack and “Lodge” signage, appears to have suffered extensive internal collapse. Debris can be seen inside the hollowed-out shell, and scorch marks are visible across much of the exterior.

It is understood that the adjacent engine house has not been affected by the fire and remains intact.

Lodge Mill - Middleton | Image: Hopwood Radio

Discussions are now understood to be underway to make the structure safe, with early indications suggesting that only the top storey may need to be brought down by one level as part of stabilisation works.

Workers gathered nearby as the scale of the damage became clear. High-visibility jackets and barriers indicate ongoing safety concerns, with authorities warning people to keep their distance.

Lodge Mill - Middleton unsafe structure | Image: Hopwood Radio

Several local business owners told us in person that the building had long been an eyesore and should be demolished, stating it held no real historical significance and had become unsightly in recent years.

Lodge Mill - Middleton | Image: Hopwood Radio

We spoke with the owner, Martin, who addressed speculation surrounding the incident. He said claims suggesting the fire was an insurance job are “utterly untrue”, adding that the building was in fact uninsured as no insurance company would cover it.

No injuries have been reported.

Lodge Mill has long been a recognisable part of the area’s industrial heritage, Talks will continue to make the building safe, It is unclear when this will happen and when the road will re-open.

The Middleton community has been left devastated by the fire, with many rallying together to show support for the owners, Martin and Paula. Both are said to be understandably shocked by the scale of the damage, not only to their own business but to the many independent businesses based within the mill. Messages of support continue to pour in as locals come together under the banner of “#TeamLodge”.

The Hopwood Radio team extends our support to the owners and local businesses impacted by this devastating fire. As a local news company based in Middleton, we strive to always support our community and will continue to offer any assistance we can to help.

An investigation is ongoing.