'Complex' investigation continues into cause of house explosion

A “complex” investigation into the cause of an explosion that completely destroyed a house and seriously injured a family of four continues.

The blast, which happened in Ayr’s Gorse Park on Monday night, razed one home and caused severe damage to several others.

A 43-year-old woman and a 16-year-old boy are currently being treated at Glasgow Royal Infirmary.

A 47-year-old man is receiving treatment at the city’s Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, while an 11-year-old boy is being cared for at the Royal Hospital for Children.

Dozens of residents from the Kincaidston housing estate were evacuated and have now spent two nights away from their homes.

Police Scotland said the cause of the explosion is still being investigated, with gas being “one potential being looked at”.

Engineers from gas distribution company SGN remain at the scene as they work with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to establish the cause of the blast.

Bradley Barlow, spokesperson for SGN, said: “We’re continuing to assist the emergency services in Gorse Park following an explosion on Monday evening.

“This is a complex incident and we’re supporting several organisations to establish the cause of the explosion.

“We’ll have an ongoing presence on site at this time, with our engineers continuing to monitor our gas network and the surrounding area.

“We’d like to reassure the Ayr community that the gas network remains safe and secure.

“Our thoughts remain with those injured and everyone in the community impacted by this incident.”

Emergency: The investigation into the cause of the blast continues. STV News

South Ayrshire Council said it had been overwhelmed by donations from the public and offers of help from local businesses.

A hub for residents affected by the incident has been set up at Kincaidston Community Pavilion.

Work is under way to get residents back in their homes as soon as possible, however the local authority described the situation as “complex” due to safety, gas and electricity tasks that need to be carried out first.

The council’s building standards staff worked with emergency services to help reduce the cordon.

The neighbourhood services team will next begin the task of clearing debris from the wider area.

Peter Henderson, leader of South Ayrshire Council, said: “The explosion in Gorse Park on Monday has left many families in the community in a terrible situation, and my thoughts are with all those who have been affected by this tragedy.

“I’ve been humbled to see the overwhelming community spirit, as people are pulling together and working alongside our services in this time of crisis.

“We are continuing to work with the emergency services and partner agencies to ensure that no one will be out of their home a minute longer than is absolutely necessary.

“I’d like to extend my gratitude to all those who are working together to support the Kincaidston community at this very difficult time. We know that we’re in this for the long haul, and we will come through this together.”

If you have been affected by the explosion and require council support, call 0300 123 0900.