BOSSES at West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) have revealed more details following the temporary closure of a bus station over the weekend.

Firefighters attended Cleckheaton bus station on Saturday after solar panels on the roof were seen emitting smoke. 

The station was immediately shut by officials and reopened on Sunday morning. 

WYCA - which operates the station - has today confirmed to the Telegraph & Argus that the smoke was caused by a fault with one of the power inverters, which is connected to the solar panels.

A spokesperson for WYCA said: "There was an incident related to the solar panels at Cleckheaton bus station over the weekend, and our staff acted swiftly to ensure no danger was posed to the public.

"The bus station was closed as soon as the issue was identified and alternative bus stops were found to minimise disruption.

"We are looking into this to ensure it doesn't happen again, and thank West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue officers for their quick response."
 
According to WYCA, firefighters disabled the solar panels, and an electrician was also called to make sure the site was safe.

WYCA said the station is now open as usual and repairs are being "planned pending wider discussions".

Fire service statement over incident

West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said its crews attended Cleckheaton bus station at around 5.25pm on Sunday.

There was reportedly a "smell of burning" and smoke coming from the solar panels on the roof.

Firefighters gained access to the roof and covered the solar panels with salvage sheets.

According to the fire service, the incident was "brought under control quickly".

A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "We were called to Cleckheaton bus station at 5.25pm on Sunday.

"There was a smell of burning - solar panels on the roof of the bus station were emitting smoke.

"Firefighters attended and accessed the roof, covering the solar panels with salvage sheets.

"An electrician was also arranged to attend.

"This incident was brought under control quickly."

Following the incident, West Yorkshire Metro - which is part of WYCA - issued a statement at around 7.45pm saying: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, Cleckheaton bus station will remain closed until further notice.

"Arriva Yorkshire services will pick up and drop off at Greenside, next to the health centre.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused."

The following day, West Yorkshire Metro said the station had reopened.