Residents of a Lancashire town were forced to evacuate their homes following the discovery of a mains gas leak this afternoon, marked by the audible sound of hissing. The incident prompted the evacuation of numerous households in the Chapels and Goose House Lane area around 2 pm. Emergency responders including firefighters, police, and gas network management firm Cadent swiftly arrived at the scene for assessment.
The Blackburn and Darwen Borough Council issued a notice detailing road closures in the affected area. Goose House Lane, from Hollins Grove St to Lower Eccleshill Rd leading to Chapels Brow, and Gordon Street were closed off to traffic with diversions in place to accommodate the ongoing investigation of the gas leak by Cadent.
A Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson confirmed the involvement of two fire engines from Darwen Fire Station dispatched to aid Cadent Gas in addressing a substantial gas leak on Goose House Lane. The affected stretch of road and adjacent areas were sealed off as a safety precaution. Residents were advised to keep windows and doors shut, and several homes were evacuated with support provided by Blackburn with Darwen Council, who set up an emergency rest center for displaced individuals.
Cadent, responsible for the gas network in Lancashire, mobilized their engineers to the site following reports of third-party damage to a gas pipe. Colin Baker, Customer Operations Area Manager for Cadent, emphasized the collaborative efforts with Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service to ensure public safety and maintain gas supply integrity for local residents. Nearby residents were urged to cooperate by keeping their premises secure and staying clear of the area during the emergency response.
The situation, unfolding on October 7th, continues to be monitored by emergency services. Witnesses reported the distinct hissing sound of the gas leak audible within the police cordon, an unsettling reminder of the ongoing hazard. Evacuated residents shared their experiences, highlighting the sudden impact of the gas odor in the affected area.
As the incident progresses, authorities reiterated road closures and safety precautions, urging residents to stay informed and comply with advisory measures. Real-time updates and additional guidance are expected to be provided as the situation evolves.