Oldham Council is continuing to assist emergency services at the scene of an explosion in Shaw this morning.
Greater Manchester Police have now confirmed that a young child died.
At least one person is also believed to be trapped.
One man was taken to hospital with 80 per cent burns while another person remains unaccounted for.
Councillor Howard Sykes said: “This is absolutely tragic news that has shocked the whole community.”
“Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this incident. You don’t have to have known any of the people involved to feel stunned and saddened by today’s events and they are all in our thoughts.
“Oldham Council is continuing to work alongside the emergency services to contribute in whatever way that we can.
“Our priority is to ensure a safe environment and assist those affected in whatever way we possibly can.
“A rest centre has been set up nearby at Crompton House school and we are working with partners to keep residents informed of developments.
”We will commit whatever resources are needed in order to assist the emergency services in their ongoing work and the clean-up operation when it begins.
“Obviously there will be people who have been affected by this and will not be able to go home tonight. We are advising them to consider staying with friends or family in the first instance, but if they need further assistance then they should call Oldham Council’s Contact Centre on 0161 770 7770.”
ROAD CLOSURES IN SHAW AREA
Road closures are in place in Shaw following an explosion in the area this morning.
Crompton Way is closed from the junction of Rochdale Road to Linney Lane.
Rochdale Road is closed between Beal Lane and Linney Lane.
Motorists are again advised to avoid the area to enable emergency rescue work to continue.
Gas explosion latest
A rest centre is being set up at Crompton House school, Rochdale Road, for people affected by the explosion in Shaw this morning.
Local residents evacuated due to this incident can proceed to the school site where refreshments and assistance will be available.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area to enable emergency rescue work to continue.
Gas explosion Shaw
Some time around 11.15am large explosion in the Buckley Street area of Shaw.
“All emergencies services are involved and Oldham Council to provide help and support I am pleased to report,” said local councillor Howard Sykes.
More news as the situation becomes clearer.
Beal Lane – Sunday 1st July
Temporary traffic signals – one day only, in connection with work on electricity supply cables.
Shaw and Crompton Family Fun Weekend Friday 22nd June – 24th June
Activities and events for all.
Fun fair – Friday night, Saturday and Sunday.
Other activities throughout Saturday and Sunday.
Vintage vehicles arrive Shaw Town Centre from 9am.
Vehicle circuit of the Township around 12noon – see map for route.
The Lazy Car Boot Sale – selected Sunday’s Shaw Town Centre
Follow the link for further details:
FREE Sunday sessions in Shaw and Crompton
The Introduction to Bushcraft event at Jubilee kicks off a series of ten free events in Shaw and Crompton that aim to connect people to their environment and encourage all ages to use their local green spaces.
Following discussions with Shaw & Crompton Parish Council’s Environment Group, Groundwork helped the group to apply for Big Lottery Awards for All funding to deliver a series of monthly events.
The aim of these events is to encourage more people to use local green spaces, to increase the number of volunteers to help improve these sites and to deter fly-tipping.
Queen’s Diamond Jubilee – Shaw Beacon
More than 50 people including local Lib Dem Councillor Howard Sykes attended the lighting of the Queen’s Jubilee Beacon in Shaw Memorial Park on 13th June, 10.15pm.