A gas company has released a statement after a house as destroyed in what is suspected to be a gas explosion in Blackburn, at the weekend.

Cadent, the gas distribution network which operates in the north west, says an investigation is still taking place after a house in London Road was destroyed in an explosion, on Sunday evening (December 17).

A spokesperson for Cadent said the company “do not believe the explosion was caused by the gas network which Cadent manages”.

They added it is “too early to determine the exact cause” and an investigation is currently taking place.

Paula Steer, network director for Cadent in the North West, said: “Cadent engineers have attended an explosion in Blackburn and we continue to assist the emergency response to the incident.

"At this stage, we do not believe that the explosion is as a result of the gas network, however, it is too early to determine the exact cause and an investigation is currently taking place.

“At this stage, we do not believe that the explosion was caused by the gas network which Cadent manages, but the investigation remains ongoing and we wouldn’t want to speculate on the exact cause of the incident whilst that is the case.

“If anyone has any concerns about gas safety, and definitely if they ever smell gas, act immediately and call the national gas emergency service on 0800 111 999, day or night.”

The explosion affected three homes, with one being destroyed.

Rubble was strewn across the street and fire teams had evacuated residents from adjoining streets.

Several road closures are still in place this morning (December 18) as a result of the explosion.

Motorists have been urged to avoid the areas and find alternative routes of travel.

The closures are:

  • Part of London Road around the properties affected.
  • The top of Blackburn Street, where it meets London Road.
  • The top of Inkerman Street, where it meets London Road.