A family of four remains in hospital after the blast in the Kincaidston area of Ayr on Monday, the cause of which is still being investigated. A cordon has been placed around the site while structural engineers determine which properties are safe.

Some of the houses have varying degrees of debris on or around them and some are in close proximity to the site of the explosion. South Ayrshire Council said four of the properties within the cordon are likely to be demolished due to the damage caused.

To date, 46 homes have been deemed safe enough for residents to return.

Due to the extent of the blast, properties outside the cordon were also damaged, including four which will require extensive repairs before residents can return, the council confirmed. Other properties have been damaged by debris and some homes are not safe to access due to broken windows and debris both inside and out.

The council said its neighbourhood services groups are on site assisting emergency services in removing the wreckage from the wider area.

Teams are also working to ensure residents displaced by the incident are returned home as soon as possible.

Council leader Peter Henderson said: “I know that council teams, the emergency services and partners have been working tirelessly to help as many people as possible to return to their homes.

“This is no easy task and I am relieved that their painstaking work has allowed some families to get back home.

“Of course, it’s still very early days and the devastation caused by this tragic event will take considerable time to rectify.

“We are committed to working alongside our communities and partners to support them through the aftermath of this terrible event.”

A woman, 43, and a 16-year-old boy are being treated at Glasgow Royal Infirmary, a 47-year-old man is being at the city’s Queen Elizabeth University Hospital and an 11-year-old boy is at the Royal Hospital for Children.