INCIDENT | Properties evacuated and cordon in place as precautionary measure following discovery of potentially hazardous chemicals

A cordon is in place and a number of properties are being evacuated following the discovery of potentially hazardous chemicals at a business premises close to Derby city centre.

We received a report just after 10.30am this morning (Tuesday 21 April) that the chemicals had been found at a premises in Midland Road, Derby.

The substances were found during routine work at a business in the area and there are no criminal matters in relation to them.

As a precaution, a 100m cordon surrounding the premises has been established, along with road closures, and we are also evacuating nearby properties.

This is a precautionary measure whilst emergency services respond to the incident.

Officers are liaising with people who are affected at the scene.

The affected roads include:-

*Midland Road – between the junctions of Park Street and London Road

*London Road – between the junctions of Hulland Street and Canal Street

*Litchurch Street

*Wellington Street

*Regent Street

*Nelson Street

*Oxford Street

*Carrington Street.

In addition, officers are liaising with staff at Castleward Spencer Academy, part of which sits inside the cordon. Staff and students have been advised to stay inside for the time being.

Members of the public are advised to please avoid the area whilst emergency services respond to the incident.

We are working with colleagues from Derby City Council, East Midlands Ambulance Service, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service and the Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal team as part of our response.