SHOPPERS were forced to evacuate Oxford Street today after a gas leak nearby sparked an emergency shut down.
Police and fire services were rushed to the scene near Poland Street, Westminster, this afternoon, closing off several roads in the area.
3
Cops shut down Poland Street, Berwick Street, Oxford Street, Noel Street, Wardour Street and Great Marlborough Street, while the London Fire Brigade said 400 "residents and staff" were forced to evacuate buildings.
A Met Police spokesperson told MyLondon: "Police are assisting following a gas leak. Officers were called at 13:05hrs on Monday, 4 April in the Poland Street area, in Westminster to a report of a gas leak.
"Officers, London Ambulance Service and London Fire Brigade have attended the scene. We are not aware of reports of any injuries.
"Local road closures are in place and some buildings have been evacuated while emergency services deal."
Read More News
Footage from the scene appeared to show more than a dozen firefighters on Poland Street.
The London Ambulance Service was also on standby, while staff from nearby stores were seen gathering outside.
A spokesperson for the London Fire Brigade said: "Firefighters were called to reports of a gas leak at the junction of Poland Street and Noel Street in Soho this afternoon.
"A gas main at ground floor level had ruptured. Crews worked with gas engineers and the supply was isolated.
Most read in UK News
"Around 400 residents and staff were evacuated from buildings in the surrounding area as a precaution."
The service said the incident finished shortly before 3pm, with crews standing on by while gas levels reduce.
3
3
