Leyland fire leads to road closures around Tesco, Worden Park and Runshaw College

Worden Lane is currently closed both ways from Church Road and Fox Lane (near the Tesco Superstore) to Edale Close (towards Runshaw College).

The fire involves a derelict house next to the Fox Lane roundabout and across the road from the Fox & Lion pub.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said the fire was found in the roof space and was already well alight when crews arrived at the scene.

Four fire engines from Leyland, Chorley, Penwortham and Bamber Bridge, along with the aerial ladder platform from Preston, are currently tackling the blaze.

Police and South Ribble Borough Council officers are also at the scene.

A police spokesman said: “We are currently assisting the fire service at the scene of a fire on Worden Lane Leyland.

"We have placed road closures on Church Road at the junction with Fox Lane outside the Fox and Lion Pub.

"Please plan your route accordingly and we will update once the road reopens.”

There are also reports that a HGV is stuck near the road closure and is unable to turn around, causing further congestion in the area.

The fire service has not commented on the cause of the fire at this stage.

The building has been derelict for a number of years and in March 2021, police discovered a large cannabis farm hidden inside the property.

Lancs fire statement

A fire service spokesperson said: “Four fire engines from Leyland, Chorley, Penwortham and Bamber Bridge, along with the aerial ladder platform from Preston, were mobilised to a house fire on Worden Lane in Leyland.

“On arrival, crews found the roof space of a derelict building to be well alight.

"Firefighters used four breathing apparatus, two hose reels and the aerial ladder platform to tackle the blaze.

“Crews remain on scene.”

Updates to follow...