School closed after fire linked to solar panels near Oswestry

What happened

A fire broke out at St Martins School near Oswestry on the evening of 21 September 2025. Flames and smoke were seen coming from the school hall area and the building's roof, where solar panels are installed. Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service responded with multiple engines, an aerial ladder platform and support from North Wales Fire and Rescue Service. Firefighters used breathing apparatus, hose reels and thermal imaging cameras to tackle the blaze and prevent spread to other parts of the building.

The school remained closed the following day while damage was assessed and the site made safe. The 3-18 Education Trust, which operates the school, confirmed the incident and stated that the fire is believed to be linked to the solar panels.

Lessons learned

1. Roof-mounted solar installations require specific firefighting access and isolation procedures.
2. Thermal imaging should be used early to locate hidden fire spread in roof voids.
3. Schools and other public buildings with solar arrays should maintain clear emergency response plans for fire and rescue services.

Source

shropshirestar.com