Roads Start To Re-Open After Gas Leak

5 May 2011, 17:19 | Updated: 5 May 2011, 17:37

People affected by a 600 metre evacuation zone in Brackley are being allowed to return to their homes and offices.

A cordon was put in place and roads were closed earlier today, Thursday 5th May, after a gas main was hit by an overturned lorry in the town. The nearby Tesco supermarket was evacuated along with local schools and nurseries, which will open as normal tomorrow.

Roads around the Town Hall, which is being used as a polling station, are expected to remain busy and voters are being told to allow extra time for their journey.

Southern Gas Network has managed to cap the gas pipe and police say gas levels in the area have been monitored and declared safe. The Health Protection Agency says the gas which escaped doesn't pose a risk to human health but anyone who feels unwell should contact NHS direct on 0845 4647.

The cause of the leek has not been confirmed but it is known contractors were working in the area and the Health and Safety Executive has been informed.

Work will continue in the area.