UNIVERSITIES across the country have been asked to seek assurances on their accommodation following the fire at student halls in Bolton town centre.

Authorities are still investigating what caused the fire at The Cube in Bradshawgate back in November.

Bolton Council's director of public health Helen Lowey reminded councillors that while the building housed students from the University of Bolton, it is owned by a private company.

She said: “In relation to the actual fire itself, the investigation by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service is still not finalised.

"How the fire transmitted and spread is still under investigation. As floors five and six are demolished we will have more information related to that."

Lib Dem leader, Cllr Roger Hayes, praised the local authority which handled the situation “extremely well”.

Council leader David Greenhalgh thanked the council workers who responded to the incident and its aftermath.

He said: “It was certainly our staff who were out their night after night.”

Two people were treated for minor injuries.