Kincaidston Explosion - Update 3pm Wednesday 20 October

There are 35 homes which remain cordoned off following the explosion in Kincaidston.  They have been cordoned off because some have been damaged, others have varying degrees of debris on or around the property and some are in close proximity to the site of the explosion, which is currently under the control of the emergency services and the utility companies.  Four of the properties within the cordon are likely to be demolished.

To date (as at 3 pm on Wednesday 20 October) we have been able to identify around 46 properties which householders can safely return to.  This process started yesterday afternoon and is ongoing today.

Outwith the cordoned off zone, the enormity of the blast caused widespread damage and properties in the wider area have been affected differently.   4 of these properties have been significantly damaged and will require to be extensively repaired before the householders can return.  Other properties have been damaged by debris and some homes are not yet safe to access due to broken windows or debris strewn across the garden area or within the property itself. This means that, within individual streets, some homes are now safe for people to return, while neighbouring homes are not.

Our Neighbourhood Services teams are on site, working to remove the significant amount of debris from the wider area.

The emergency services are leading on this operation. We are continuing to work with them to preserve public safety in the entire area, whilst at the same time doing everything we can to enable people who are still displaced by the incident to return home safely. This is complex and detailed work and involves our Building Standards team working with the emergency services to inspect each home.

We are also continuing to provide targeted support for those whose homes remain unsafe. If you are one of the households affected by the explosion, you can contact 0300 123 0900 for more information.

Many households within Kincaidston have been able to remain in their homes.  We recognise that some people may be more vulnerable and may need additional support.  If you are concerned about any of your neighbours, please contact us on 0300 123 0900.

Leader of South Ayrshire Council, Councillor Peter Henderson said - "I know that council teams, the emergency services and partners have been working tirelessly to help as many people as possible to return to their homes.

"This is no easy task and I am relieved that their painstaking work has allowed some families to get back home today. Of course, it's still very early days and the devastation caused by this tragic event will take considerable time to rectify.

"We are committed to working alongside our communities and partners to support them through the aftermath of this terrible event."

20 October 2021