Residents forced to evacuate after 'large gas leak' reported on housing estate

06 January 2023 , 23:59

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The leak took place at the Wyndham Estate, in Camberwell, London (Image: Google)

Residents have been evacuated after a "large gas leak" on a London estate with a huge emergency service presence at the scene.

Police and firefighters rushed to the incident at the Wyndham Estate, in Bowyer Street, in Camberwell, on Friday night.

Residents were told to evacuate as a precaution, but there have been no reported injuries.

And people were also advised to avoid the area with the cause of the leak believed to be a burst main.

Southwark Police tweeted at 10.50pm: "Police and other emergency services are on the scene of the leak at the Wyndham Estate in Bowyer Street in Camberwell.

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Residents have been evacuated after a "large gas leak". File image (NurPhoto via Getty Images)

"Southwark Police say a number of residents have been evacuated as a precaution, but luckily there are no reported injuries. Officers have also advised people to avoid the area this evening.

"The cause of the gas leak, and how long the area will be cordoned off is currently unknown."

A burst gas main was the cause of the leak reportedly said the London Fire Brigade.

"A gas main has ruptured on the exterior side of a residential block. Around 100 people have been evacuated as a precaution," a spokesperson told the Metro.

But people have now been allowed to return to their homes.

"This incident has now concluded and residents have been allowed back into their properties. Thanks to local residents for their patience while this was dealt with," said an update from police at 12.35am but still no details were given over the cause.

It comes after more than 1,000 people were evacuated from central London after a gas main ruptured on December 20.

The London Fire Brigade was called to the City of London during rush hour after a 24-inch main ruptured.

At least 1,300 people were evacuated from the area, it stated.

The London Fire Brigade tweeted: "Around 1,300 people have been evacuated due to the 24-inch gas main that has ruptured on Seething Lane junction of Crutched Friars.

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"Fenchurch Street station is not affected. Please avoid the area if possible."

Its earlier tweet read: "Firefighters are attending a ruptured gas main on Seething Lane at the junction of Crutched Fryers Lane in the City of London. Around 150 people have been evacuated from commercial premises and offices. Please avoid the area if possible."

Tim Hanlon