Bedford explosion: Gas blast residents allowed to return to their homes in Cleat Hill

People forced to leave their homes following a fatal gas blast in October have finally been told they can return to their properties, just in time for Christmas.

Two people were killed in the explosion in the Cleat Hill area of Bedford on Saturday, 19 October and people living in surrounding homes were told they had to move out.

Paul Swales, 85, died at the scene. Julia Harris, 84, died in hospital a few days later.

The explosion was caused by a leak of natural gas and police said in the aftermath that more gas had been detected in the area.

As a result people from 50 households were evacuated and a cordon set up but on Friday Bedford Borough Council announced that the cordon had been removed.

Methane gas detection monitors have also been installed in all homes in the area that have accepted the offer.

The in-home monitoring will take place over the next 12 months and there will be long-term, targeted monitoring, said the council.

A spokesperson for the Bedfordshire Local Resilience Forum said; “We are extremely grateful to residents for their patience and cooperation, and we are happy to encourage them to return to their homes.

“We are continuing to offer support and advice to residents.

"This will include an on-site presence by the police and fire and rescue service, the 24/7 helpline, and the continuation of some temporary accommodation for residents.

“Thank you too to the wider community for their support throughout this challenging time.”

An investigation is continuing into the cause of the explosion and an inquest into the deaths has been opened and adjourned until 27 May 2025.

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