MUSGROVE PARK Hospital is open and Wellington Road has reopened after contractors working at the hospital damaged a gas pipe which lead to the hospital being evacuated.

Firefighters and police officers cordoned off Wellington Road and Parkfield Road at around noon today (May 27) after Musgrove Park Hospital was evacuated following a gas leak. 

The gas supply has now been restored to the hospital Wales and West Utilities has confirmed.

Graham Curnow, Wales & West Utilities Operational Manager for Taunton said:

"We have been working to repair a leak on a gas pipe supplying Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton after contractors damaged the gas network in the area.

“We are pleased to say our team has now completed the repair work and restored the gas supply to the hospital. All roads have been reopened.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the public for its patience; we know this work has been disruptive, but it was important that we repaired the leak as quickly and safely as possible.

“We would urge anyone who is planning to dig on private land or on the public highway to contact us in advance to find out where our pipes in the area are. Phone Wales & West Utilities ten days before you want to start work on 029 2027 8912 or emaildig@wwutilities.co.uk.”

Around a dozen patients were moved from their ward while the evacuation was taking place. 

The hospital tweeted to inform members of the public that the hospital was open for business.

Wellington Road and Parkfield Road have now reopened after they were cordoned off after the leak. 

Police and firefighters closed off Wellington Road for a number of hours while engineers worked to fix the leak.

A spokesman for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said: "We currently have three fire engines from Taunton and Wellington in attendance at a gas leak caused by an accidental rupture to the gas main near the above location.

"Crews are currently at work with gas company representatives making the area safe and carrying out evacuations of a part of the hospital area. 

" Roads have been closed due to cordons that are in place for the safety of the public.

"There have been no casualties affected by the leak."

A spokesman for Avon and Somerset Police said:"We are currently assisting the fire service in evacuating Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton.

"Contractors working at the hospital have accidentally damaged a gas pipe.

"The evacuation is precuationary and road closures are in place while the incident is dealt with.

"We will update you again when the situation has been resolved."