Bury: Demolition works are ongoing at houses affected by explosion

Last Thursday, a suspected gas explosion happened at around 11am at a terraced property on Nelson Street.

A woman in her 70s, named Sheila, was taken to hospital with serious injuries following the blast, however, is thought to be in a stable condition.

Read more: Nelson Street house explosion: GoFundMe page set up for residents

The demolition process began last Friday, with the first floor of the houses being taken down brick-by-brick for police to retrieve as much of the scene as possible.

The rest of the demolition should be finished today, and a full criminal investigation will look into the cause of the explosion.

The damaged houses on Nelson Street (Image: Newsquest)

Cllr Tamoor Tariq, who lives yards away from Nelson Street spoke about Sheila who was injured in the blast saying: “I would say she is well known and always smiling and friendly. I understand she’s stable in ICU and we’re hopeful she’ll make a recovery.”

Read more: Residents prepare for homes to be demolished

A community spirit event was held last night on Gigg Lane where The Dutch Fishmen offered fish, chips and burgers to the community following the devastating incident.

A fundraiser has also been set up to support the families who have lost their homes.

A total of £235 of a £3,000 target has so far been raised. 

Read more: Nelson Street: Demolition begins on damaged houses

It is understood the council is going to use emergency powers to help start the process of rebuilding the homes on the site.

Cllr Tariq said he will be lobbying the council to lobby the insurance companies to rebuild the homes, which is the preferred option for the residents.