Kentish Express Ashford & District
Uncertain future for blast homes
Council bosses are yet to confirm their plan for a row of houses hit by a devastating gas explosion more than one month ago.
A leak from a portable heater sparked the huge blast in Mill View, Willesborough, on Thursday, May 4, leaving two people seriously injured.
Three of the houses are owned by Ashford Borough Council (ABC) - including the property at the centre of the explosion with one being privately owned.
But more than a month on, authority chiefs are still deciding what will happen with the homes, which are next to the junction with Osborne Road.
“We are in regular contact with the affected residents and are working with them to ensure their ongoing needs are met,” an ABC spokesman said last week.
“Regarding the properties, a structural survey has taken place and following meetings on site it is very likely that all four properties will be demolished, however we are awaiting the full written structural report and information from the loss adjuster for the council properties and will also liaise with the loss adjusters representing the private householder.
“Currently the structures are unsafe so we have taken steps to make the area safe, including hoardings going up around the site.”
At the time of the blast, Ethel Hanford, 99, and her son Donald, 75, were living in the home that housed the portable heater.
They were rescued by heroic builder Andy Hodges and his son Harry and were treated at the William Harvey Hospital along with three others.
The two people who suffered serious injuries lived next to the Hanfords and remain in hospital in London.
Later this month, a fun day will be held at the nearby William Harvey pub to raise money for the explosion victims.
Organised by barmaid Emily Rigg, it will be held on Saturday, June 26 from 12pm.
The event will feature a barbecue, tombola, bouncy castle and live music among other attractions.
Meanwhile, an online fundraising campaign has now passed £12,000.
To donate, visit bit.ly/34P4EbU