Praise for community and emergency services response to Morriston home explosion

Further details have been issued to families and those most affected by the blast which has destroyed property in Clydach Road, Swansea.

Most householders have been allowed to return to their homes, but access to 12 homes remains restricted as the repair and recovery operation continues.

Rob Stewart, Leader of Swansea Council said: “Our staff, the emergency services and a wide range of community support services have been working round the clock over the last two days to support all those affected by this devastating event.

“Our thoughts and concerns remain with those most affected by what’s happened. We, alongside our partners, have done everything we can to support residents and all those affected.

“We will continue to be there for them over the coming weeks and months. The council has been providing alternative accommodation to those who’ve needed it free of charge and we will continue to do so.”

Cllr Stewart said: “The amount of damage done is incredible and the recovery period will take some time. The patience of residents and the wider community so far has been greatly appreciated.

“The outpouring of support for those affected has been amazing to see and I know just how much those affected have appreciated offers of practical and emotional support.

“An official fund is being set up, details of which we expect to be able to share on Wednesday. In the meantime I want to place on record our thanks to all those who have worked so hard in the last 48 hours to support the Morriston community at this difficult time.”

Wales and West Utilities who manage the gas infrastructure are continuing with their investigations into the explosion.

Rob Long, Chief Operating Officer for Wales & West Utilities said: “We continue to work with the emergency services following an explosion at a property in the Clydach Road area of Swansea yesterday morning (13 March). As the gas emergency service, it is our role to make sure the area is safe and support the investigation. 

“Due to the extensive nature of the incident, we have been carrying out comprehensive checks in the local area to rule out any damage to our network as a result of the explosion. We have completed these checks and now many residents are able to start returning to their homes.

“We still do not know what caused the explosion and we are remaining at the scene to support the emergency services and HSE as they investigate.

“We would like to reassure the local community that every safety precaution has been taken and would like to thank them for their patience and understanding during this difficult time.

“Our thoughts remain with the family of those affected and with the community of Morriston.”

Overnight, the council and utilities companies have reduced the cordon around the affected area, allowing most householders to return to their homes. They are being strongly advised to get their gas and electricity systems checked.

The council say that around 12 properties remain within the restricted area. Supervised visits to homes are being allowed so that owners can obtain necessary documents such as insurance and other information.

All householders who have been affected by the incident have also been advised to contact their insurance companies.

Residents who continue to have housing issues are being advised to contact the council’s Housing Options team for advice and support.

There are a number of residents living in the affected area who have not contacted the council. They are being urged to make contact so that the council can discuss any support they may need.

The rest and advice centre at Morriston Memorial Hall will be open again on Wednesday to provide support.

(Lead image: Sioned Williams)