Families evacuated after New Years Eve crash causes gas leak

Several families were forced to flee their homes after a car crash triggered a major gas leak.

The incident left 2,000 households in the Dutton and and Upton Rocks area of Widnes without a gas supply. Emergency services were called to Queensbury Way in Widnes on New Years Eve after reports of a collision.

Fire engines from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service were called to scene at 6.50 pm.

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Gas supplier Cadent were called out to the incident as a vehicle had collided into one of their governor stations- a small kiosk which manages gas pressures in the local area.

The firm made the area safe, before beginning the process of recommissioning and repressurising the local network. The customer service team contacted the most vulnerable people to ensure they were safe and to support them until supplies were reinstated.

A spokesperson said: “As a result of this collision, the governor immediately made it safe by cutting off the gas supply which has affected Cadent customers as well as those of an independent gas transporter (IGT) GTC.

“As part of the process of safely restoring the gas network in Widnes, our engineers are visiting affected properties to safely switch off the gas supply at the meter.

"We would like to remind everyone that if they ever suspect a gas leak then they should call the Gas Emergency Service number on 0800 111 999* as it may not be related to this incident. The number operates 24/7 and is free to call."

Residents have been urged not to attempt to do this themselves as an engineer will ensure this is done safely.