UPDATED: Residents on Union Road, Ryde have evacuated from their properties this morning (Sunday) due to a gas leak after a car hit a building at the edge of the carriageway.
Firefighters from Ryde are attending the scene and have set up a cordon amid fears over safety after being alerted to the leak at around 03:10. Gas can be smelt throughout the area.
Neighbours have evacuated themselves from their homes, with locals reporting that an unknown car collided with a gas main and a residential building before fleeing the scene.
Those living in the building directly affected were awoken by neighbours concerned for their safety.
No one has been injured in the incident, which has prompted a road closure.
Engineers from Southern Gas Networks are on scene and are working with the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service. Police are also in attendance.
UPDATE @ 04:15 – It is reported that oil has been spilt on the carriageway through the streets of Ryde including George Street, Castle Street and East Hill Road – roads which lead away from the scene in Union Road.
It is thought the vehicle involved in the collision has sustained damage and is leaking oil.
Motorists are advised to take care in the area.
Meanwhile, Police are evacuating more residents from Union Road as a precautionary measure.
UPDATE @ 05:00 – Sand has been put down on the carriageway at Dover Street and the Esplanade due to the large oil spill, which runs the length of the seafront to East Hill Road.
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and remain on scene alongside firefighters and Southern Gas Network engineers.
The road is anticipated to remain closed for at least a couple of hours.
UPDATE @ 05:40 – Residents have been allowed to return to their properties with the scene having been made safe.
Investigations into the incident continue.
UPDATE @ 09:30 – SGN engineers and emergency services have now left the scene, with traffic management arrangements handed over to SGN.
It is thought the wanted vehicle travelled into High Park Road and beyond with more sand placed on the carriageway at the junction with Salisbury Road.
In total around 15 residents were evacuated, however all have been allowed to return home
