Fatal gas explosion bungalow could be rebuilt

A decision is to be made over the future of a Derbyshire bungalow blown apart by a fatal gas explosion.

Nigel Barrow, 78, was airlifted to Sheffield’s Northern General Hospital after the explosion at the end-of-terrace property on Ollersett Avenue, in New Mills, in November last year.

He died three days later from his injuries, and residents in 14 nearby properties were also evacuated from their homes.

High Peak Borough Council planners will on Monday discuss if the property should be reinstated with the two-bedroom bungalow and back garden rebuilt, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS).

The blast on 14 November caved in the property, which was later demolished.

Fire crews from New Mills, Glossop, Whaley Bridge and Buxton, Derbyshire Police, East Midlands Ambulance Service and an air ambulance, as well as staff from gas distribution network company Cadent attended the scene.

The council set up a rest centre for residents at New Mills Leisure Centre and some households were provided temporary accommodation before returning to their homes the following day.

Derbyshire Police has submitted a file to the coroner in relation to Mr Barrow’s death but investigations by all authorities into the explosion are yet to be completed.

The recommendation to the council’s planning committee is for the property to be reinstated.

If rebuilt, it would be fitted with a carelink service and let by the council to a couple or individual aged 55 or over.

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