Demolition and clearance works underway in Worksop following fatal explosion
A man in his 50s was found dead among the debris of the home
Last updated 29th Apr 2025
We're told that the final demolition and clearance work of 3 properties in Worksop is now underway.
It follows an explosion on the 12th of April at a home on John Street, which caused damage to several nearby properties.
Residents were evacuated as emergency services worked at the scene.
Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service said it received its first report about the incident in John Street at 7.39pm.
They then declared it a major incident "owing to the significant damage to the building" they said.
Nottinghamshire Police confirmed the terraced property had been "partially destroyed" and adjourning homes had also been damaged. Today they confirmed that their crime scene investigation concluded on Friday.
The scene has now been handed over to Bassetlaw District Council's Building Control Team to finalise the demolition work.
The Chief Executive of the Council, David Armiger said:
“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."
He added that:
“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. I would also like to thank council staff, emergency service colleagues and all the partner agencies who have supported residents throughout this incident. Finally, our thoughts remain with the friends and family of David Howard who sadly lost his life.”
David Howard was found by police from under debris following the blast.
The 53-year-old died at the scene.
Detective Chief Inspector Ruby Burrow, of Nottinghamshire Police, said at the time:
“Our thoughts are very much with David’s loved ones at this devastating time.
“He has lost his life in truly tragic circumstances, and we would ask everyone to respect his daughters' privacy."