FAMILIES won’t be returning to their homes after a gas explosion ripped through a block of flats.

Tenants in Appleford Court in Pitsea are being given new permanent properties following the blast last Monday afternoon, which saw “significant” damage to the roof and a wall - leaving the building unsafe.

Bosses at Swan Housing Association say families may never return to the block and extensive work is needed to fix it.

Heroic neighbours dragged a badly burned man out of his flat after the blast in the apartment block. He was taken to hospital for burns to his legs.

A spokesman for Swan Housing said: “As there is significant damage to the roof and one wall of the building which will take time to reinstate, our housing teams have been working hard to support the affected residents into new homes.

“Swan has already secured new permanent homes for five of the nine households affected and have worked in partnership with Basildon Council to secure a further home.We are continuing to work with the remaining three households and are offering support to all residents throughout this difficult time.

“As such, all of our residents are aware that they will not be returning to Appleford Court unless they wish to do so and then only when it is fully habitable.

“It is likely that most households will not return and then only when works are complete. Thereafter any remaining homes will be let in accordance with the council’s housing register.

“The health and safety of our residents at Swan is always of primary concern and we will work with the authorities to reach a successful conclusion to the investigation into this incident.”

A large cordon was put in place as seven crews fought the fire.

Essex Fire Service’s Urban Search and Rescue team confirmed the whole building is structurally unsafe and no longer habitable.

Swan bosses added: “Our teams continue to support residents and the investigating authorities. Swan Housing Association have ensured appropriate security arrangements are in place, carried out structural assessments and are fully supporting the investigation.”