A woman has died after a 20-metre crane collapsed on houses in east London.
Dozens of people have been evacuated from their homes after a 20-metre crane fell on a site where flats were being constructed, and crashed into two terraced houses in Compton Close, Bow, on Wednesday afternoon.
It is understood the crane was still in the process of being erected when it collapsed.
Mayor of Tower Hamlets John Biggs said around 40 people were asked to leave their homes, but added that as people returned from work the number of residents affected could have increased.
He added it was unknown when they could return home as the site has to be made safe.
“It was still being erected as I understand it,” he told the PA news agency.
“Someone else told me it was being erected today, so it’s in the last 48 hours it’s been going up.”
Mr Biggs said the incident will worry people and pointed out the importance of learning from what happened.
“We have more construction in my part of London than just about anywhere else in the country, and it’s important that we get on top of it of course, and learn any lessons, see were there any errors,” he said.
“A lot of people will be worried by this and I guess there’s a question of public assurance as well.”
Asked how long people will be out of their homes, he said: “No idea whatsoever. Obviously you need to make sure the site is safe.”
Mr Biggs said there is a possibility that utilities and supplies of water and electricity may be affected by the damage.
