Residents evacuated from homes in London's West End as gas leak closes roads 'into morning'

Residents evacuated from homes in London's West End as gas leak closes roads 'into morning' London Fire Brigade are at the scene of bustling West End street following a gas leak as roads are expected to be closed into the morning after residents have been evacuated Residents have been evacuated from their homes following a gas leak in London's West End. A rest centre has been established as 40 residents have had to leave their homes due to a gas leak. A 50-metre cordon is in place after firefighters were called to Stacey Street near the junction of Shaftesbury Avenue. Road closures are in place and will remain shut into the morning. London Fire Brigade have warned people to 'avoid the area'. Station Commander Daniel Perrett, who is at the scene, said: "Crews are working with partners to isolate a gas main which has ruptured and make the scene safe. "The incident is expected to be protracted and continue into the morning. There are road closures in place, which are causing some disruption. We encourage people to avoid the area where possible. "A rest centre has been established to support affected local residents as we work to resolve the incident." LFB were first called to the scene at 1.31pm on Sunday, June 14. Three fire engines and two command units from Soho, Euston, Bethnal Green and Dowgate fire stations are at the scene.