OWNERS of business premises severely damaged in the New Ferry explosion have been told they will have to pay for demolition.
Birkenhead magistrates last week granted a council order to bring down properties from 56 to 66 Bebington Road due to the severity of the damage.
Owners of the affected properties have until next Thursday, August 3 to appeal the decision.
If no appeals are made, contractors will be instructed to move onto the site and begin the demolition.
Demolition costs will be met by property owners or their insurance companies.
The damaged buildings have been behind a secured cordon since the explosion on March 25.
In a statement, the council said: "The affected properties are a mixture of ground floor businesses with residential accommodation above.
"Affected residents are now in alternative accommodation and work to find new premises for all displaced businesses is ongoing.
"Yesterday, Wirral Council was informed by central Government that its request for financial assistance on behalf of New Ferry residents and businesses had been turned down.
"Council officers continue to meet with New Ferry residents and businesses affected by the explosion on a regular basis and work on a long-term regeneration plan for the town is progressing."
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