East Belfast Alliance Councillor Peter McReynolds has praised the emergency services for dealing with a suspected gas explosion in Ballyhackamore.
One person has been injured following the incident, which happened at a recently opened restaurant on the Upper Newtownards Road around 4pm this afternoon. The road remains closed, with concerns remaining about the stability of the building.
“The facts are still emerging but one man has been taken to hospital with injuries. My thoughts are with him and I hope he makes a swift recovery,” said Councillor McReynolds.
“While concerns remain about the building being unstable, I am thankful no other injuries or damage has been reported to date. We could have easily been dealing with a far worse outcome.
“This is a built-up residential and commercial area, so I want to give my thanks to the emergency services, who were quick on the scene and helped with a difficult situation.”