Two Houses in Richmond Collapse Amid Possible Gas Leak Scare
Chaos hit Lower Mortlake Road, Richmond, south London, on Tuesday afternoon when two houses suddenly collapsed. The terraced homes, undergoing renovations, crumbled just before 3pm, triggering fears of a gas leak.
Loud Bang and Smoke Terrify Locals
Witnesses reported hearing a loud bang followed by thick smoke billowing out. Building debris was scattered across the street as panicked locals rushed outside. The properties, numbers 47 and 49, were almost completely destroyed, with only their side walls still standing.
Emergency Services Rush to Scene — No Injuries
Police, firefighters, and paramedics quickly arrived on site. Miraculously, no one was hurt. The London Fire Brigade confirmed they were called at 2:56pm and had the situation under control by 5:11pm. Crews from Richmond, Acton, and Heston fire stations attended the incident.
“Most of two terraced houses under renovation collapsed. There are currently no reports of any injuries,” a Fire Brigade spokesperson said.
Investigation Underway Over Gas Leak or Structural Fault
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has launched a full investigation to pinpoint the cause. Early signs suggest structural issues, but officials are probing a possible gas leak as well.
These properties have faced planning disputes in recent years. Richmond Council approved a 2022 plan to replace them with a part one-to-three storey building featuring 14 co-living units and landscaping.
Authorities and residents remain on high alert. More updates are expected as investigations continue.
