Prior to consideration of the items of business on the agenda, the Chair indicated that Mr Mark Camborne, Head of Community Safety & Transport Services would provide an update in relation to the explosion that had occurred in New Ferry on Saturday 25 March 2017, the effects of which had been devastating to the local community.

Mr Camborne indicated that there had been significant damage to buildings and homes in the surrounding area of New Ferry, with more than 30 people injured, 1 of whom was still critically ill in hospital.

Officers were involved in the immediate response and Mr Camborne paid tribute to the multi-agencies and the local community responses for the help they so kindly provided. Evacuation Centres were deployed and those residents evacuated were provided with clothing, food and wellbeing support and advice. Housing Options and homelessness teams helped those people needing emergency accommodation.

Merseyside Police, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, the Council, Health and Safety Executive and National Grid, were working together to investigate what had happened to prompt such a devastating explosion.

A recovery team led by David Ball had been established to look at the options to move forward. An advice hub for residents had also been established with planned support for those local businesses affected. Colleagues and partners would be continuing work on making the site safe as soon as possible and re-open roads, so that people are able to return to their homes.

The Chair praised the staff and the emergency services who had worked and continued to work on the incident for their hard work and commitment, and for going the extra mile during it, as they tried to alleviate the stress of a dreadful and dangerous situation. 

Members echoed the comments of the Chair and gave their thanks to the officers, emergency services, residents and agencies who had worked tirelessly to support people.

In response to a Member, Mr Camborne indicated that officers were awaiting the site to be handed over to them from the Police and would then be able to carry out the necessary inspections to ensure the buildings were safe.

A Member stated that WIRED which was a local charity based in Birkenhead had offered their support in providing advice to those affected in relation to insurance and collecting toiletries etc, in response, Mr Camborne suggested that this information be passed on to the Constituency Manager and his team who was assisting the setting up of a contact centre.

Mr Camborne indicated that officers were using social media, local press and television appeals to try and make contact with those families affected. It was thought that 50% of the properties damaged may not have been insured, but officers would be on hand to assist those affected. In relation to damage affecting Lever Houses, Mr Camborne indicated that he had been in contact with the Port Sunlight Trust to ascertain the damage caused.

RESOLVED: That

(1)  Mr Camborne be thanked for his update;

(2)  all those who had offered support and worked tirelessly to help those affected be thanked for their excellent work and support;and

(3)  the Committee’s thoughts and well wishes be conveyed to those families and business owners affected by the incident.