Fire at Paterson Building

17 Jan 2018

Update on investigation

Following an extensive forensic investigation, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has now issued its findings on the cause of the fire that took place at the Paterson Building in April last year. This building is owned by The Christie and is leased by the University, and is the headquarters of the Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has concluded that the most probable cause of the fire on the roof of the Paterson Building was welding operations or operations allied to welding, being undertaken by the roofing contractor, or persons under its control. The fire occurred when the remains of hot welding rods and welding spatter came into contact with combustible materials that had accumulated on the plant room floor.

Much of the cancer research taking place within the building was salvaged and we, and our partners at The Christie and Cancer Research UK, were truly moved by the public support and offers of practical help following the fire.

We are now working with our partners on ambitious plans to redevelop the Paterson building. In conjunction with The Christie and Cancer Research UK, our aim is to provide a purpose built, state-of-the-art, world class cancer research facility to ensure that The University and The Christie remain international centres of excellence and continue to lead the way with cancer research breakthroughs.