Bradford-on-Avon’s town centre was closed off for several hours on Saturday, 29 August, following reports of a potential gas leak. Emergency services, including police and fire crews, were called to Silver Street at around 11am to investigate the incident.
Road closures were swiftly implemented on several key routes including Silver Street, Market Street, St Margaret’s Street, and across Town Bridge. Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service arrived to support local officers from Bradford-on-Avon Police in managing the situation and ensuring public safety.
Authorities initially indicated that these road closures would remain in effect “for the foreseeable future” as investigations continued, advising motorists to seek alternative routes and avoid the area until it was declared safe.
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Eyewitness accounts described hearing “a loud bang and smoke,” which was associated with a manhole cover reportedly blowing off. This prompted the evacuation of shops and heightened concern among residents and businesses alike.
However, after thorough checks, emergency teams confirmed that the incident was caused by an electrical fault rather than a gas leak. Consequently, all road closures were lifted by approximately 2pm, allowing normal activity to resume in the town centre.
Bradford-on-Avon Police provided an update on social media, stating: “We responded to reports of a possible gas leak on Silver Street, Bradford-on-Avon, at around 11am this morning (29/08). Officers supported colleagues from Bradford-on-Avon Fire Station with road closures while they investigated the circumstances. It is believed the incident was caused by an electrical fault, and the area was made safe. All road closures were lifted at around 2pm.”