CHESTER Market will remain closed until further notice following a gas explosion in one of the Northgate Development's adjacent units.

Three contractors working in the Turtle Bay unit, which had yet to be opened, were seriously injured following the explosion which happened on Wednesday evening (March 29).

Emergency services were deployed to the scene, with Chester Market evacuated.

The market remained closed on Thursday, and now it has been confirmed the market will stay closed from Friday until further notice.

A statement from Chester Market on Friday said: "Unfortunately following the incident in the Turtle Bay unit, Chester Market will need to remain closed for the time being whilst we undertake some further investigations and essential repair works.

"We want the market back open as much as we know you do, so please bear with us whilst we get things straight behind the scenes. Our wonderful traders and staff also need some time to restock and clear up so that they can once again provide the great Chester Market experience.

"At this time though, our principal thoughts are with those injured and their families at this difficult time and wish them a speedy recovery."

A cordon was put in place on Hunter Street following the explosion. The market was evacuated but other night-time premises such as Cosy Club, The Coach House, the Shropshire Arms and Storyhouse remained open.

Jenny Moten, director of Cadent’s North West network, said: “Cadent has supported the multi-agency response to the incident in Chester, as the gas emergency service for the area.

“My team made sure everything associated with gas was safe.

“We’ve carried out a thorough check of the gas mains and service pipes in the area. I can confirm they are sound and did not cause or contribute to this incident.

“We now leave the scene in the hands of the lead agencies, as they continue their work to establish what happened.

“Cadent provides a 24-hour, 365-day gas emergency response service. If you ever smell gas, call the national gas emergency service, immediately, on 0800 111 999, day or night. All calls are recorded and may be monitored.”