THERE are currently traffic delays on a main road in Liverpool due to a gas leak.

Emergency services were called to Waterloo Road at the junction of Regent Street in Vauxhall after a significant gas leak was reported this afternoon (Tuesday, March 19).

Merseyside Police, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service and Cadent are all at the scene.

Traffic and travel monitoring site, Inrix, states: “A5036 Waterloo Road both ways closed, heavy traffic due to gas leak between Vandries Street and Paisley Street. Ongoing since earlier this afternoon.”

Road closures have been put in place while nearby properties have been evacuated.

A spokesperson for Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service said: “Fire Crews have been called to Waterloo Road, at the junction of Regent Street, Vauxhall, after a significant gas leak was reported. Crews were alerted at 12.18pm and on scene at 12.22pm, with two fire engines in attendance.

"Merseyside Police have been requested to assist with road closures as required and managing cordons. Crews arrived to find a large gas leak from a pipe and are evacuating surrounding properties. A cadent repair team is en route to the incident.

"Waterloo Road and shops and stores in the area are being evacuated by Merseyside Police, residents and businesses nearby are advised to keep doors and windows closed.

"Pedestrians and motorists should avoid the area. The incident is ongoing."

Cadent, who manage the gas network across Merseyside confirmed that the cause of the leak was due to one of its gas pipes being “damaged”.

A spokesperson said: “One of our gas pipes has been damaged during works off Waterloo Road, causing a leak. As a precaution, we asked for emergency service assistance to evacuate Costco (which is nearby) and assist us in closing roads while we assess the situation. We will issue further updates soon.

"To avoid any concern or speculation, nobody has been hurt and the swift actions of many has ensured we keep everyone safe."

Due to emergency services dealing with the incident traffic was held at Kingsway tunnel, in the Liverpool-Wallasey direction while safety checks were being undertaken.

A Merseytravel spokesperson confirmed that this temporary stop has ended and that traffic should now be flowing freely.