Gas leak sparks evacuation in Junee

A HOUSE has been evacuated and roads closed as emergency services respond to a suspected gas leak in Junee.

Fire and Rescue NSW crews, including a hazardous materials unit from Wagga Wagga, were called to the corner of George and Edgar streets around 11am Wednesday following reports of a “strong gas smell”.

Superintendent Adam Dewberry told The Junee Bulletin that gas was detected in the area, prompting the evacuation of two residents to the local community centre.

Edgar Street and part of George Street—between Edgar and Ducker streets—were closed to traffic for several hours as crews worked to locate the source of the leak.

The nearby Kemp Street bridge was also briefly shut to vehicles and pedestrians. It was first to reopen, followed by George Street a short time later.

© The Junee Bulletin

© The Junee Bulletin

Edgar Street remained closed into the night while crews worked to repair the leak.

Initial reports suggested it may have been caused by recent road works, with residents reportedly smelling gas in the area for several days after the a section of the road was “ripped up”.

Inland Rail crews have been undertaking utility investigations in the area since march, and were recently seen digging up the road near the corner of Edgar and George Street.

© The Junee Bulletin