Merseyside Police launch investigation into Wirral explosion

Emergency services were called at 9.14pm to the junction of Boundary Road and Circular Drive in New Ferry, to reports of a suspected gas explosion.

Firefighters searched all of the affected properties affected by the explosion and search dogs from Merseyside and Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service have searched the collapsed buildings and debris. The search remains ongoing.

Merseyside Police is working to establish the cause of the explosion.

Police are also working with a number of partner agencies including Wirral council to ensure that the area is made safe, roads are reopened wherever possible and local residents are able to return to their homes or collect their belongings as soon as possible.

Assistant Chief Constable Nikki Holland said: “This has obviously come as a massive shock to the community of New Ferry and our thoughts go out to those people who were injured during the explosion and the people who continue to be affected by it.

“I want to give my reassurances that Merseyside Police is committed to establishing what caused the explosion and are working closely with our partners at National Grid and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service as part of the investigation.

“Work is also ongoing with our colleagues at Wirral council to ensure that the area around the explosion site is made safe as soon as possible and that roads are reopened and people are able to return to their homes or collect their belongings as a priority.

“I would like to thank the local community for their patience while this work is being carried out.”

The incident is ongoing and road closures remain on New Chester Road at the junction of Bebington Road (between School Lane and Windsor Close) and junction of Circular Drive at the junction of Osbourne Close. Motorists are advised to avoid the local area.

Anyone who has any information or requires help or assistance in relation to the explosion is asked to contact 101.