Update on chemical spill in Portsmouth after Environment Agency investigation

Emergency services rushed to Gladys Avenue on Wednesday, February 25 at around 1.30pm due to an incident at a commercial premises. A section of the road was closed as specialist hazmat teams from Winchester and Romsey were called in.

Attending alongside the emergency services was a team from the Environment Agency who confirmed that the scene was safe.

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An Environment Agency spokesperson said: "We responded to a chemical spill on North End Avenue, alongside the fire service. The discharge has been stopped, and investigations determined the substance entered the foul water sewer which means the spill posed no significant threat to the environment.

“We will be following up with the company responsible to ensure steps are taken to prevent a reoccurrence.

“Members of the public should report any signs of pollution to our 24 hour hotline 0800 80 70 60.”

A number of casualties were treated at the scene for mild chemical fume inhalation but the road was reopened just two hours after the first calls were made to the fire service.

Wastewater from the foul water sewer is directed to a water treatment plant where it is processed.