Ceiling Collapse at Salford Quays Pizza Express Prompts Emergency Response
Emergency services rushed to a Pizza Express in Salford Quays, Manchester, following a ceiling collapse. The incident occurred on a Sunday afternoon, with numerous diners reportedly present at the time.
On Sunday, September 8, 2024, a Pizza Express restaurant in Salford Quays, Manchester, experienced an unexpected incident when its ceiling collapsed. The event prompted an immediate response from local emergency services, including police, paramedics, and fire crews.
The incident occurred at approximately 3:45 PM at the Quayside shopping centre, located in the heart of Salford Quays. This area, once the site of Manchester Docks, has undergone significant regeneration since the 1980s and is now a thriving waterfront district known for its mix of residential, commercial, and leisure developments.
Witnesses reported that the restaurant was occupied by numerous diners when the ceiling gave way. The building's structure suggests that a gym may be situated on the floor above the affected area, potentially complicating the incident.
Greater Manchester Police issued a statement confirming their presence at the scene: "Officers are in attendance along with other emergency service colleagues as they carry out their work." Similarly, a spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) stated that three fire engines from Salford and Broughton were quickly dispatched to address the situation.
While the immediate focus was on ensuring public safety and assessing the damage, there was no initial information regarding potential injuries. The GMFRS spokesperson added, "Crews are working to make the area safe and remain in attendance."
This incident occurred in an area that has become a significant hub for media and culture in recent years. Salford Quays is home to MediaCityUK, where several BBC departments are based, and attractions such as the Imperial War Museum North and The Lowry theatre and gallery complex.
"At just after 3.45pm today (Sunday 8 September), fire crews were called to reports of a collapsed ceiling at a restaurant on Salford Quays."
As the situation continues to develop, local authorities are likely to investigate the cause of the collapse and assess the structural integrity of the building. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of regular building maintenance and safety inspections, particularly in areas with mixed-use developments like Salford Quays.
The Salford Quays area, which has its own M50 postcode district, is well-connected to Manchester city center via the Metrolink tram system. This connectivity may have facilitated the quick response of emergency services to the scene.
As the community awaits further updates, the incident highlights the challenges faced by urban areas that have undergone rapid transformation. Salford Quays, with its modern architectural structures and diverse range of amenities, continues to be a dynamic part of Greater Manchester's landscape, balancing progress with the need for public safety.
