A taskforce has been set up by Bolton Council to help the town recover following the major fire at the Cube student accommodation building on Bradshawgate, on Friday.

Representatives from the local authority, University of Bolton, emergency services, health, The Cube team, other accommodation providers, and voluntary organisations convened yesterday to put in place plans to help the affected Bolton community.

The partnership is working successfully together to ensure all residents are supported, following the distressing incident, and put plans in place to help the town recover.

Key issues are being co-ordinated by the group including the health and welfare for all residents displaced from The Cube (owned by a private freeholder) and neighbouring accommodation.

Students displaced from The Cube have been provided with temporary alternative accommodation by the University of Bolton in partnership with Urban Student Life.

They are currently unable to return to The Cube due to an ongoing Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) investigation.

There will be a phased reopening of adjacent buildings when they have been made safe and habitable again. The Anvil has already reopened to tenants.

Anyone staying at accommodation next to the Cube, who were evacuated to a local hotel following the fire and still in need of support should contact 01204 333333.

Residents are also reassured that whilst some of the accommodation blocks do not allow pets, agencies have stressed that no action will be taken on those who kept a pet.

The council is the lead authority for the recovery phase. The recovery group will continue to provide updates as and when they have them - visit the Bolton Council news page for Frequently Asked Questions and updates.

Helen Lowey, Director of Bolton Council’s Public Health and Chair of the Multi-Agency recovery group, said: “Firstly, we all want to say a huge thank you to everyone who pulled together since this terrible incident took place.

“Bolton has really come together and the response has been overwhelming.

“We understand that is a stressful time for everyone involved – both for those living in the Cube and in the adjacent buildings.

“Before the buildings can reopen, it is absolutely critical that they will comply with building regulations and public safety is our absolute priority.

“We will continue to support our communities and look after the welfare of all of our residents who were displaced by the fire.”

Donate financial contributions to the official fund here: www.justgiving.com/campaign/BoltonStudentFlatsFireAppeal

The University of Bolton is also asking for donations of holdalls, large rucksacks, small and medium suitcases to be dropped off at the Chancellors Mall on University Way. No other donations are required.