Emergency services responded to a potential chemical leak at a leisure center and water park in Derby, where approximately 12 individuals were reportedly experiencing breathing issues. The incident occurred at Moorways Sports Village in Allenton, prompting the evacuation of the premises as a safety measure.
Authorities urged drivers to avoid the area and seek alternative routes. Paramedics assessed the affected individuals, who were experiencing respiratory difficulties. Fire crews from multiple stations, including a specialized Environmental Protection Unit from Stockhill, were on site to manage the situation.
Due to the emergency response, Osmaston Park Road was closed up to the junction with Moor Lane, causing traffic congestion in the vicinity. Witnesses described people coughing in the changing rooms due to the dry atmosphere, prompting swift evacuation measures.
Ambulances, police vehicles, and fire trucks were observed outside the facility, where individuals wrapped in foil were seen. Eyewitnesses reported a large-scale evacuation around 1:30 pm, with one person being transported to an ambulance on a stretcher.
A spokesperson from Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the ongoing incident and collaboration with other emergency services. The leisure center continued to be evacuated while authorities addressed the situation and tended to those experiencing breathing difficulties.
For safety reasons, the affected road section remained closed, and the public was advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes. The incident is under investigation with the cooperation of various emergency response units.