Speaking outside Derby Crown Court, Insp Ben Wildman, local policing inspector for the east of the city, said the explosion had a “huge impact” on the community.
“The explosion in Eden Street on 10 June last year was caused by Paul Solway’s decision to cut the gas pipe in his home,” he said.
“This incident not only left him seriously injured in hospital but had a huge impact on the residents and the community of Eden Street and the surrounding area.”
Wildman added that Solway’s actions were “selfish and reckless”.
“Many people were forced to leave their homes for several days and two adjoining houses to Solway’s were so badly damaged they had to be demolished,” he said.
“I cannot begin to imagine the distress these families felt at the time and the ongoing impact this is having on them all through no fault of their own.
“To have that taken away from them is devastating and even more so when it was down to an incident like this – a wholly avoidable, selfish and reckless act carried out by Paul Solway.
“I know this incident caused a great deal of destruction and distress but by working together we were able to make sure that everyone affected was well looked after.
“I hope everyone is now able to look forward to the future and I’m pleased that Solway is now facing the consequences of his dangerous and careless actions on this day.”