EXPERTS are continuing to examine the site of the Pier Road explosion as evacuated Islanders remain unable to return to their homes.
The buildings surrounding the block of flats at Haut du Mont, which was destroyed on 10 December, are being assessed to determine whether they are safe to live in.
Nine Islanders died following the explosion at the residential block – which is managed by Andium Homes – and investigations are under way to determine the cause of the blast. Peter Bowler (72), Raymond (Raymie) Brown (71), Romeu and Louise De Almeida (67 and 64), Derek and Sylvia Ellis (61 and 73), Ken and Jane Ralph (72 and 71) and Billy Marsden (63) all died in the blast.
None of the properties were connected to gas for cooking or heating. Andium has confirmed that there was a redundant Island Energy gas supply at the site but all users had been removed from it.
A spokesperson for the States police said: ‘Police, fire and honorary police are all still involved, along with the USAR team (Urban Search and Rescue), the NCA (National Crime Agency) and several experts in their fields from the UK.
‘The site is currently being examined by experts, supported by crime-scene investigators and search officers.
‘It is being assessed as to whether the surrounding buildings are safe [and] inhabitable.’
Some of the USAR firefighters deployed by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service have returned to the UK after assisting with the recovery operation.
Glenn Bowyer, HIWFRS’s area manager for operations, said: ‘Our thoughts go out to all those affected by this tragedy.
‘I would like to commend the work of our teams who have demonstrated their professionalism and expertise to support our Jersey emergency services colleagues during a major incident.’
He added: ‘We worked alongside different partners and agencies every day and night, with this incident highlighting how skilled and effective our teams are when collaborating with others.
‘Our teams have proudly exemplified our organisation’s values and behaviours throughout their time in Jersey.’
