A Bury councillor has said three houses are to be demolished after today's explosion.

Emergency services were called at around 11am today, Wednesday, to reports of an explosion at a property on Nelson Street in Fishpool.

A fire broke out with smoke surrounding the area and Greater Manchester Police said a woman in her 70s suffered serious injuries and was taken to hospital.

Residents were evacuated following the blast, which caused damage to three terraced homes.

Now, a borough councillor says three houses are to be demolished tomorrow, Thursday.

Cllr Tamoor Tariq, the council's former deputy leader, has released a statement on X, saying: "Unfortunately the three properties affected will now require full demolition.

"This will take place tomorrow from 8am.

"GMP will have officers in place at the cordons overnight to protect vulnerable properties.

"Cordon remains in place on Nelson Street/Back Devon Street but will be reduced to unsafe buildings in the next two hours."

People in the Bury community have been shocked by today's incident.

An investigation involving Greater Manchester Police, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS), gas network Cadent and the council is under way to find out the cause of the blaze.

Cllr Tariq added: "Today has been one of the most difficult days for my local neighbourhood.

"People are immensely grateful to emergency services, Bury Council and wider agencies and authorities for what they have done to save and protect lives today."

The councillor's statement is yet to be confirmed with emergency services who are still working to ensure the area is safe as people return home.

READ MORE: Fire service issue update after house explosion in Bury

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READ MORE: Residents are evacuated after house 'explosion'

Earlier this evening, the council said house numbers 86 to 96 could go back to their homes.

A statement said: "Residents from 86 to 96 Nelson Street please go to the Cadent welfare unit on back Devon St to arrange return to your property. Cadent will escort you and carry out gas safety checks."

A council spokesperson added: “We continue to work with emergency services and are supporting those who are not able to return to their homes at this time.

“If you are affected or are worried about someone who could be, please ring our emergency number on 0161 253 6606."