New homes planned at site of fatal explosion

A planning application has been submitted to replace three terraced houses destroyed in an explosion that claimed two lives.

Boundary Builders, of Balderton, said the new homes would be in keeping with the rest of Wright Street, Newark.

Agent Mr David Dakin, of Collingham-based David Dakin Architects, said new homes could perhaps serve as a memorial to those who lost their lives.

The explosion on May 19, 2013, resulted from the build-up of gas released by cans of expanding foam used in DIY work in the cellar of 28 Wright Street.

The blast destroyed the house. Jeanette Rourke, 40, and her father-in-law, Mr Leslie Rourke, 71, died in the incident and several people were injured.

About 100 nearby residents were evacuated. The houses either side of number 28, which were severely damaged, were demolished in the aftermath of the tragedy, leaving a gap in the terrace.

A decision on the application to replace the homes will be made by Newark and Sherwood District Council.

Mr Dakin said: “It is impractical to leave the area as it is and it serves as a permanent reminder to Wright Street of the terrible accident that happened there.

“Perhaps having three similar houses back there would remove that reminder while serving as a memorial to those who tragically lost their lives.

“It will be interesting to see if the town council or planning committee members have comments on whether rebuilding those homes is a fitting memorial, but nothing has been raised with me as yet.”

The proposal is for three modern two-bed townhouses with downstairs toilets, large open-plan kitchen/dining rooms and first-floor bathrooms.

The district council will make a decision either at committee or through delegated powers given to officers, typically within eight to 12 weeks of the application being made.

Anyone wanting to comment on the application can do so at the council’s website.