by Trevor Bevins, Local Democracy Reporter.
Rsidents in the Fordington area of Dorchester have now been told that it could be late tonight (Monday) before they know whether or not they can return to their homes.
Electrical engineers have now been called to the High Street and Holloway Road area after a gas leak was discovered at 6.30am this morning – with residents being told that until the gas leak has been fixed up to 75 homes will have to remain without power. Only once the gas supply to the area is secure and tested can the electricity be switched back on.
Thirty homes near where the gas leak was discovered, at the junction of Fordington High Street and Holloway Road, have been evacuated, including two families with babies. It is understood all have gone to friends and relatives while repairs are carried out.
A further meeting of the energy companies, police, fire and council services is due to be held at 6pm this evening.
One resident was told by a council officer that, even if all goes well with the gas repair, which has not yet been completed, it could be four hours before people are allowed back home.
Only once the gas leak is secure can electrical engineers reconnect supplies to the affected home.
SGN have issued a statement acknowledging that they are working on the problem with residents given an online link to check on progress. Road closures on the High Street, Holloway Road and Pound Lane are to remain in force until the situation is resolved.
Resident Katie Tidby raised the alarm after smelling when she left her home on the corner of Fordington High Street and Holloway Road to go swimming at the leisure centre at 6.30am.
“I noticed the smell when I was outside the back door. It seemed to be coming from the drains – so I phoned the southern gas emergency number.
“When the engineer arrived he lifted the manhole cover and you could see the gas shooting out… they took readings in our house and their machine bleeped in every room, so they said we would have to evacuate.”
Dorchester Mayor Les Fry praised the work of the gas company, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue and Dorset Police for reacting promptly to the situation.
“It is good to see all of the services pulling together so that people can get back into their homes as soon as possible,” he said.
