Bassetlaw Today

Tag: Bassetlaw District Council

  • Council to offer free parking across Bassetlaw in run-up to Christmas

    Council to offer free parking across Bassetlaw in run-up to Christmas

    Shoppers in Bassetlaw are being encouraged to take advantage of free parking in the run-up to Christmas.

    Visitors to Worksop and Retford will be able to enjoy extended free car parking in all Bassetlaw District Council Car Parks (including the Priory Centre in Worksop) in the weeks before Christmas and New Year.

    Parking will be free after 1pm each day, an hour earlier than in previous years and a week earlier across the district.

    PICTURED: Bassetlaw District Council offices in Worksop

    Free parking will be available from Saturday, November 22 2025 until Monday, January 5, 2026.

    The Council is running the scheme in a bid to attract more people into the town centres to support high street businesses.

    Parking will be free from 1pm in council car parks for the Christmas Lights Switch on in Worksop on Saturday, November 22.

    Cllr Alan Rhodes, Cabinet Member for Corporate and Financial Services said: “We hope by extending our free parking offer will encourage more people to shop local and support traders and businesses in our town centres.

    “It also means those attending the Christmas Lights ‘Switch On’ in Worksop later this month will also benefit from the free parking in our council owned car parks.”

  • Bassetlaw District Council say they are ‘leading the way’ with approach to tackling empty shop problem in Retford and Worksop

    Bassetlaw District Council say they are ‘leading the way’ with approach to tackling empty shop problem in Retford and Worksop

    A council say they are ‘leading the way’ their approach to tackling the problem of long-term empty shops as one of the early adopters of the High Street Rental Auction (HSRA) powers.

    Bassetlaw District Council council has been working with landlords, agents and businesses to understand the barriers to occupancy, the current retail and hospitality market and what drives investment into High Streets.

    This collaborative approach has already paid off with vacancy rates falling since high streets were designated in March. In Retford it’s dropped from 8.16% to 5.78% and from 11.48% to 9.84% in Harworth and Bircotes, while in Worksop it’s remained level at 19.20% with shops closed counterbalanced by new shops opening.

    Since work began on the HSRA, 23 shops across the district have been let or are currently under offer. In addition, several long-term vacant properties in Worksop have recently been brought back to the market.

    Cllr Steve Scotthorne, Cabinet Member for Identity, Planning and Place said: “We are encouraged by the positive outcomes of our HSRA approach, which prioritises building trust and transparency with landlords and agents before considering any formal action.”

    “By working closely with them, we’ve been able to address market challenges head-on, assist in quickly supporting prospective tenants with available properties and offer additional support with grants for fit outs incentivising businesses to invest in our high streets.”

    HSRA provides a new power for local authorities to require landlords to rent out commercial properties unoccupied continuously for 12 months or for at least 366 days within a 24-month period to new tenants, such as local businesses or community groups.

    “We’ve been able to address market challenges head-on” – Cllr Steve Scotthorne

    The council is viewing it as a last resort, only where all voluntary routes have been exhausted and has been giving wider support to 14 local authorities across the UK sharing best practice.

    The council has also been supporting specific types of businesses underrepresented on the high streets with shop fit out grants of up to £20k to take on empty premises, providing wrap around support to new businesses as well as supporting and retaining existing businesses. These fit out grants have been supported by £100k from the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) from funding provided by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

    The council’s efforts have been praised by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) as an example of best practice for its work focused on relationship building rather than enforcement, aligning HSRA work with the Council’s wider town centre investment strategy including the introduction of shop fit out grants, business support and place marketing work through the ‘Discover’ campaigns.

    Minister for Devolution, Faith and Communities, Miatta Fahnbulleh, said:“By bringing landlords, businesses and communities together, Bassetlaw District Council is showing how High Street Rental Auction powers can transform towns.

    “This collaborative approach is delivering real results in bringing vacancy rates down and reopening shops that have sat unoccupied for far too long.

    “This is exactly the kind of proactive, partnership-driven work that’ll breathe new life into high streets across the country.”

    To find out about the HRSA designated areas visit www.bassetlaw.gov.uk/HSRA/ or for more information on support available to high street businesses visit www.bassetlaw.gov.uk/support-and-advice-for-businesses

  • Bassetlaw Council propose PSPO to tackle antisocial driving

    Bassetlaw Council propose PSPO to tackle antisocial driving

    THE public is invited to have their say on legislation to tackle antisocial driving in Bassetlaw.

    The council is looking to introduce Nuisance Vehicle Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPO) which would tackle anti-social behaviour including the sounding of horns, loud music, performing stunts, and attending gatherings to cause a public nuisance.

    A consultation has now been launched on the proposal which aims to get an understanding of whether vehicle anti-social behaviour is impacting the local community as well as whether they would welcome the new powers.

    If the PSPOs are brought in, breaching the order would be a criminal offence. This would allow Police or the Council to issue a Fixed Penalty Notice of £100 or take them to court following a successful conviction, where magistrates would have the power to order the offender to pay a fine of up to £1000.

    The council can also consider if it is appropriate to apply for a court Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO). A CBO prohibits the offender from doing anything described in the order – for example, entering a defined area).

    Cllr Darrell Pulk, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods said: “We hope people will have their say on the proposed Nuisance Vehicle PSPO for the district and share their views before consultation ends on Monday 22nd December at 5pm.

    “The responses gathered will help us make an informed decision on whether to move forward with these new proposed powers.”

    To take part in the consultation or if you want to find out more information about the proposed prohibition visit https://www.bassetlaw.gov.uk/draft-nuisance-vehicles-pspo

  • Four arrested over Worksop robbery after incident is spotted on CCTV

    Four arrested over Worksop robbery after incident is spotted on CCTV

    Officers investigating reports of a Worksop robbery have arrested four suspects.

    CCTV operators from Bassetlaw District Council alerted police to an assault taking place in Bridge Place at 6am on Tuesday (14).

    The victim, aged 33, was approached by four men who attempted to extort money from him.

    After taking his mobile phone he was assaulted twice and suffered serious injuries.  

    By 6.10am, Worksop response officers were on the scene and detained two suspects.

    Two men, aged 31 and 36, were arrested on suspicion of robbery, committing grievous bodily harm with intent and assaulting a person causing actual bodily harm.  

    A man, 45, was located a few hours later and arrested on suspicion of committing grievous bodily harm with intent and robbery.

    In the early hours of Wednesday (15), a 36-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of robbery.

    The victim was taken to hospital with the serious injuries.

    Detective Sergeant Andrew Sansom, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “This was a serious assault that left the victim in hospital.

    “The officers involved did a great job reacting to the information available to locate two people suspected of being involved in a robbery just a few minutes earlier.

    “Robbery is an extremely serious offence that can leave a lasting impact on people’s lives, which is why it is so important that we always respond quickly to every report that we receive.

    “I’d also like to thank the CCTV operatives at Bassetlaw District Council for informing us of this incident.”

  • Council invites housebuilders and landowners to suggest plots for future development as they issue ‘call for sites’

    Council invites housebuilders and landowners to suggest plots for future development as they issue ‘call for sites’

    A ‘call for sites’ has been issued by Bassetlaw District Council to help identify potential development plots in the future.

    Submissions can be for a range of new development including for all types of housing, businesses, renewable energy or nature recovery, community facilities and open space.

    The appeal will not affect or replace the council’s adopted Local Plan, which already sets out where housing and other developments are allowed to be built, and which areas should be protected in the district over the next 13 years.

    Cllr Steve Scotthorne, Cabinet Member for Identity, Planning and Place said: “The Call for Sites is a valuable tool to ensure that all possible sites across the district are assessed for their potential for development.

    “Anyone can suggest a site to us, and I would encourage everyone to get involved.”

    The Council will include all submitted sites in the Land Availability Assessment and will assess if they are suitable for development.

    The Call for Sites and site assessment process does not indicate that planning permission will be granted or suggest that sites are suitable for allocating in any future Local Plan.

    The 12-week engagement runs from June 12 to 4th September 4, 2025, using the Council’s new digital platform for which we have received Government funding https://cfs.bassetlaw.urbanintelligence.co.uk/, through the Council’s website https://www.bassetlaw.gov.uk/call-for-sites/ or email planningpolicy@bassetlaw.gov.uk.  

  • Latest planning applications put before Bassetlaw District Council

    Latest planning applications put before Bassetlaw District Council

    These are the latest applications to have been submitted to and validated by Bassetlaw District Council this week.

    This is a round-up of the latest plans that the council’s planning officers have validated.

    These applications will now be decided by the council’s planners.

    More details can be found on the Bassetlaw District Council planning site HERE by using the reference codes published below.

    Proposed Pitched Roof over Existing Garage, First Floor Extension and Single Storey Extension to Front Elevation
    5, St Helen’s Road Retford Nottinghamshire DN22 7HA
    Ref. No: 25/00526/HSE

    EIA Screening Opinion – Proposed Solar Farm,Battery Energy Storage Scheme (BESS)
    Land East Of A1 and South Of Long Brecks Lane, Blyth, Worksop
    Ref. No: 25/00525/SCR

    Discharge of Condition 12 (Archaeological Assessment) P/A 23/00946/OUT – Outline Application with Some Matters Reserved (Access) for Proposed Commercial Development of Existing Agricultural Land
    Land North Of Ollerton Road, Tuxford Nottinghamshire
    Ref. No: 25/00524/COND

    Rear Single Storey Pitched Roof Extension
    21, Allison Avenue, Retford Nottinghamshire DN22 7JS
    Ref. No: 25/00518/HPD

    Erect Dwelling with Detached Garage
    Land At White House Farm, Main Street Styrrup, South Yorkshire
    Ref. No: 25/00512/FUL

    Variation of Condition 2 (Change of Opening Hours to 24hrs) on P/A 15/00036/COU – Change of Use from Class A3 (Public House) to Gymnasium Class
    My Gym Limited, Bridgegate Centre, Bridgegate Retford Nottinghamshire DN22 6AJ
    Ref. No: 25/00513/VOC

    Discharge of Conditions 4 (Management and Security Enhancement Plan), 5 (Southern Boundary Hedgerow) and 6 (Hard Surface Details) of P.A. 22/01493/COU – Application for the Change of Use of a (C3a) Dwelling to a Children’s Home for a Maximum of Four Children, with Two Carers Sleep Overnight, Working on a Rota Basis (C2)
    34A, Dukeries Crescent, Worksop Nottinghamshire S80 2QW
    Ref. No: 25/00516/COND

    Discharge of Condition 4 (Land Levels) 5 (Sewage and Surface Water) 8 (Time table Biodiversity Enhancement) 9(Outdoor Lighting) 10 (Tree Survey) and 11 (Tree Protection) on P/A 23/00007/OUT – Outline Application with Some Matter Reserved (Approval Sought for Access Layout and Scale) for Construction of a Detached Dwelling
    Land Opposite Valley Farm, Middlebridge Road, Gringley On The Hill South Yorkshire
    Ref. No: 25/00511/COND

    Removal of Condition 34 (Safety Management Plan) on P/A 23/00656/FUL Installation of a Solar Farm with an Output of Approximately 45.4MW and Ancillary Works
    Development Site To The North Of Brick Yard Road, Gamston Nottinghamshire
    Ref. No: 25/00508/CONR

    Discharge Condition 4 ( Construction Method Statement )on P.A 25/00054/FUL Proposed Replacement Dwelling.
    Eight Bells, 2 Sunnybank Gardens, Gringley On The Hill South Yorkshire DN10 4SS
    Ref. No: 25/00495/COND

    Change of Use from Vacant Store (Class E) to New Bedroom to Existing Flat 1
    19, Beckett Avenue, Carlton In Lindrick Nottinghamshire S81 9LJ
    Ref. No: 25/00493/COU

    Use for Sale of Food and Drink (Class E(b)) and Local Community Uses (Class F2) with Internal Refurbishment and Minor Elevation Repairs and Alterations
    Retford Town Hall Buttermarket Retford Nottinghamshire DN22 6DU
    Ref. No: 25/00484/FUL

    Removal, Replacement and Repainting of Street Furniture, Installation of Planting Schemes and Erect 14 Fingersign Posts Within Retford Town Centre
    Various Street Furniture Locations In And Around Carolgate, Retford Nottinghamshire
    Ref. No: 25/00462/FUL

    Erection of New Garage Outbuilding
    165A Baulk Lane Worksop Nottinghamshire S81 7JP
    Ref. No: 25/00426/HSE

    Non Material Amendment of P.A. 23/01514/RES to Allow Additional Louvre for Kitchen Intake (Elevation 9) and Extract (Elevation 4) and Change Window to Louvre and Duct to Laundry Facade
    Land To The North Of Gateford Toll Bar, Worksop Nottinghamshire
    Ref. No: 25/00420/NMA

    Works to Trees in a Conservation Area – T1, Beech – 2 to 3 m Reduction all Round, T2, Tibetan Cherry – Crown Clean Removing Crossing Rubbing Dead Branches and Sucker Growth. T3, Weeping Willow – Reduce height by approximately 4 m and laterals 2 to 3m T4, Cricket Bat Willow – Reduce back to growing points (secondary branches only)
    The Old Vicarage Abbey Road, Mattersey, South Yorkshire DN10 5DX
    Ref. No: 25/00379/CAT

    Prior Approval for Extension of Existing Agricultural Building
    Springvale Farm, Springvale Road, Bevercotes Nottinghamshire NG22 0BT
    Ref. No: 25/00343/AGR

    Erect Single Storey Rear Extension
    78 High Road Carlton In Lindrick Nottinghamshire S81 9EB
    Ref. No: 25/00312/HSE

    Two Storey Side and Single Storey Storey Rear Extension to Create Ann New Wider Driveway Access Including Drop Kerb
    1 Thievesdale Lane, Worksop Nottinghamshire S81 0NG
    Ref. No: 25/00268/HSE

    Application to Determine if Prior Approval is Required for a Proposed Change of Use of Hairdresser/ Beauty Salon (Class E) to Two Flats (Class C3)
    9, Eldon Street Tuxford Nottinghamshire NG22 0LB
    Ref. No: 25/00272/PDN

    Change of Use and Extension to Existing Redundant Stables/Outbuilding to Form 1 No. Residential Dwelling Use Class C3
    Red Roofs, Church Street, East Markham Nottinghamshire NG22 0SA
    Ref. No: 25/00261/FUL

    Single Storey Front Extension
    132 High Road, Carlton In Lindrick Nottinghamshire S81 9DT
    Ref. No: 25/00262/HSE

    Prior Approval Application for a Proposed Change of Use From Commercial, Business and Service (Use Class E) into 2 One Bedroom Flats on First Floor (Use Class C3)
    96, Bridge Street, Worksop Nottinghamshire S80 1JA
    Ref. No: 25/00250/PDN

    Single Storey Rear and Side Extension following Demolition of an Existing Garage and Erection of Gates
    33 Blyth Road, Worksop Nottinghamshire S81 0HP
    Ref. No: 25/00239/HSE

    Retrospective Application for New Dwelling and Garage (Not Built in Accordance with P.A. 22/01208/FUL)
    Green Ivy Greenside, Rampton Nottinghamshire DN22 0HY
    Ref. No: 25/00202/FUL

    EIA Screening Opinion Request-Installation of a New 17km Water Main from the Higham to Mosborough Trunk Main System to the Lowtown 21 Inch Main
    Water Main, Castle Farm Lane, Worksop Nottinghamshire
    Ref. No: 25/00211/SCR

    Proposed Demolition of Existing Timber Garage, Construct Brick-Built Garage.
    67, Firbeck Crescent, Langold Nottinghamshire S81 9SA
    Ref. No: 25/00178/HSE

    Installation of Replacement Signs to Include: 1x Internally Illuminated Totem Sign 5x Fascia Signs 1 Externally Illuminated, 1x Post Mounted Corex Sign
    The King & Miller North Road Retford Nottinghamshire DN22 7XW
    Ref. No: 25/00144/ADV

    Proposed Double Garage
    Lyndale Church Lane West Drayton Nottinghamshire DN22 8EB
    Ref. No: 25/00082/HSE

    Erect Side Extension to Existing Factory
    Oranmore Precast Chainbridge Lane, Lound Nottinghamshire
    Ref. No: 24/01482/FUL

    Single Storey Front Porch with Part Single and Two Storey Rear Extension
    5 Millfield Close Retford Nottinghamshire DN22 7TW
    Ref. No: 24/01397/HSE

    Self Storage Unit Facility (Class B8) Consisting of Shipping Containers, Site Office and New Gates
    Plot 10 Vesuvius Way Worksop Nottinghamshire
    Ref. No: 24/01391/FUL

    Construction of Detached Dwelling
    Land West Of Stonegate Farm Bawtry Road Everton South Yorkshire
    Ref. No: 24/01308/FUL

    Demolish the Existing Garage and Conservatory and Construct New Garage, Front Porch and Two Storey Side Extension.
    19, Lea Court, Worksop Nottinghamshire S80 3QP
    Ref. No: 24/01266/HSE

    Retrospective Listed Building Consent for Localised Roof Repair Works Required Along the Western Slope of the North East Wing of Worksop Manor.
    Worksop Manor Dog Kennel Lane Worksop Manor Worksop Nottinghamshire S80 3DG
    Ref. No: 24/01255/LBA

    Erect Ground Floor and First Floor Extensions and Refurbish Existing Disused Farm Building to use in Association with Existing Dwelling
    Owl House Main Street West Markham Nottinghamshire NG22 0GT
    Ref. No: 24/01110/HSE

    Erect Single Storey Rear Extension to Create an Office, Utility Room and Ground Floor Toilet With Shower
    Manor House Main Street Harworth South Yorkshire DN11 8LB
    Ref. No: 24/00154/HSE

    Two Storey Side and Single Storey Rear Extensions to Existing Dwelling, Erection of New Dwelling, Including Two New Detached Garages and Associated Works
    Brickyard Cottage Great North Road Tuxford Newark Nottinghamshire NG22 0NW
    Ref. No: 23/00898/FUL

    Proposed Swimming Pool and Detached 4-Bay Garage
    Clayworth Manor Wiseton Road Clayworth Retford Nottinghamshire DN22 9AB
    Ref. No: 21/00632/HSE

  • £50k outside gym revamp work set to begin at The Canch in Worksop

    £50k outside gym revamp work set to begin at The Canch in Worksop

    Work to revamp an outdoor gym will begin this week at The Canch in Worksop.

    Bassetlaw District Council said it wants to create a more accessible, community friendly outdoor gym at the green space.

    Work is getting underway this week to remove most of the existing exercise equipment in the Adizone area and replace it with eight brand new pieces, including a PowerSmart hand bike, seated shoulder press, a recumbent bike, new surfacing and the creation of a new floor painted workout area.

    Costing £50k, it has been designed by the Great Outdoor Gym Company and work will begin on installation this week with an area fenced off for safety purposes.

    The equipment being replaced has been at The Canch since 2010
    A computer-aided design of the new-look outdoor gym

    Cllr Darrell Pulk, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods said: “This is an exciting project to revamp part of one of our much-loved parks and make it more accessible for the whole community.

    “We hope it provides an additional opportunity for people of all ages to be able to socialise and enjoy time exercising together.”

    The equipment being replaced has been at The Canch since 2010 and as well as coming to the end of its service life, replacement parts are no longer available for some of the pieces.

    The new equipment has been made in accordance with Inclusive Fitness Initiative (IFI) guidelines, which recognises products designed with accessibility in mind, and includes an app people can download to log and track their own workouts.

    The investment forms part of the councils Vision 2040 Healthy District ambition which includes a commitment to maintaining high quality local exercise options.

    Meanwhile essential repairs are continuing at the splash park with work starting this week.

  • Plans for new food court in Retford’s Buttermarket one step closer

    Plans for new food court in Retford’s Buttermarket one step closer

    Plans to update Retford’s Town Hall to create a £1.2 million food hall are one step closer after plans were submitted to the district council.

    In February 2025, Bassetlaw District Council announced its plans to create an “exciting new culinary experience” at Retford’s Buttermarket.

    The Buttermarket refers to a ground floor area of the Grade II-listed Retford Town Hall in which the new food court is proposed to be in.

    While the council submitted its plans – to update the town hall to make way for the project – to its planning portal in April 2025, plans were formally validated today (May 12).

    Retford Town Hall
    The Buttermarket refers to a ground floor area of the Grade II-listed Retford Town Hall

    Planning documents say “minor alterations” will take place to the internal space, replacing toilet fixtures and the kitchen as well as creating new partitions for the separate food vendors.

    An accessible toilet will be added to ensure the food court can be used by all.

    The project will cost £1.2 million, host six street food outlets and seat up to 60 diners.

    Cllr Steve Scotthorne, Cabinet Member for Identity and Place said: “These are exciting proposals, which if given the go ahead, could attract more people into the Buttermarket and the wider town.

    “As well as giving the much-loved historic building a new lease of life it’ll also create exciting opportunities for several food retailers in Retford.”

    The Buttermarket is currently used as a space for traders to sell  craft items.

    A petition, called ‘Save Our Buttermarket’ was created in March on Change.org, asking the council to reconsider its plans to change the use of the space.

    If given the go-ahead, the scheme will be paid for through government funding, including from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

    The plans will be decided by the council at a later stage, after which the authority says the search for an operator to manage the food outlets will start.

  • Charity’s energy advice helps cut Worksop woman’s energy bills by more than £150

    Charity’s energy advice helps cut Worksop woman’s energy bills by more than £150

    A charity has helped a Worksop woman save more than £150 on her utility bills

    Charity energy experts the Green Doctor, helped local resident Carol save money on her utility bills and also share valuable knowledge to make the most of her energy use, so she can save even more.

    Carol has lived in her home for 17 years. When her landlord Bassetlaw District Council offered her a free visit from the Green Doctor, an energy-efficiency service from charity Groundwork Five Counties, she wasn’t sure what she would need help with, but made the appointment anyway.

    Carol said: “Green Doctor Mike came to my home, he was very helpful. Together we reviewed my utility bills, and he noticed I could save over £150 a year by switching to a different tariff.

    “He also explained how having a smart meter would help me keep track of how much I’m spending, helping me to save even more money. Of course that sounded like a good idea, I’d never even considered that as an option.

    Green Doctor Mike came to Carol’s home to help her save money on utility bills

    “Mike also pointed out that the bills were still in my late husband’s name and said this could cause problems as I’m not the registered account holder. Together we rang my supplier to change the name, put me on the cheaper tariff, and arrange for a smart meter to be installed. They came within days and set it all up without any fuss.

    “Keeping an eye on how much everything costs on the smart meter display has helped me become more mindful not to leave appliances on when they’re not in use. Mike also gave me energy tips, like using the eco-setting on the washing machine, which is 40% more energy efficient.

    “He also checked if I was having any issues with damp or mould. He has a damp-reading gadget that can detect it even if you can’t see it, but luckily my home was clear. I’ve had an issue with this before and the Council sorted it, so I was very glad to have it confirmed that it’s really gone.

    “Having someone so knowledgeable and happy to help has made a huge difference. I’m saving money, have learned a lot about energy efficiency, and I feel more confident I’m doing the right thing looking after my home. Bassetlaw District Council is doing a great thing offering this free service to tenants. I highly recommend getting a Green Doctor visit.”

    The charity’s Green Doctor service is a fully funded service available to households around the East Midlands. Individuals can sign up for this service to get free money and energy advice in their own home.

    Groundwork Five Counties is working with Bassetlaw District Council through its Damp & Disrepair service, helping social housing landlords look after their tenants and homes. A free trial is available to landlords in the East Midlands, visit the website for more information: https://www.groundwork.org.uk/damp-disrepair

  • Council begin demolition work at site of fatal explosion in Worksop

    Council begin demolition work at site of fatal explosion in Worksop

    Work has begun to demolish properties at the site of a fatal house explosion in Worksop.

    Bassetlaw District Council’s Chief Executive, David Armiger confirmed that work had started on Monday (28) after a Nottinghamshire Police search of the site ended.

    Emergency services were called to John Street at 7.39pm on April 12 after an explosion inside a house.

    The terraced home was destroyed and significant damage was also caused to neighbouring properties.

    The body of David Howard, 53, was later discovered in the wreckage. Despite the best efforts of the responding emergency services, he died at the scene.

    In a statement, Mr Armiger said: “On Friday, Nottinghamshire police concluded their crime scene investigation at the site of the explosion on John Street, Worksop, but the wider investigation continues. It means the site has now been handed over to Bassetlaw District Council’s Building Control Team.

    “The site cordon has now been significantly reduced and will remain in place for the next few days to cover the final demolition and clearance works to the properties at 24, 26 and 28 John Street. Once this work is completed, we will board and secure access to the site, with only the pavement outside these street numbers remaining closed.

    “Our Building Control Team continue to liaise with affected residents and their insurance companies as well, ensuring that it is safe for people to return to their homes. We recommend that all properties undergo gas and electric checks as well as a further structural survey.

    “The weeks following the explosion have been a very difficult and challenging time for the residents of John Street, including those outside the cordon who have all had their lives and daily routines upended. I would like to thank everybody for their patience and understanding during this time. 

    He added: “Finally, our thoughts remain with the friends and family of David Howard who sadly lost his life.”