THE Anchor Street leisure complex in Bishop's Stortford was evacuated on Sunday afternoon (February 2) amid fears of a chemical leak from the Nuffield Health gym.
The scare was prompted when melting snow caused a cave-in on the roof of the health centre, where hazardous substances including sulphuric acid are stored.
Customers and staff were evacuated at the neighbouring Fishy Biz fish restaurant, Empire cinema, 1st Bowl bowling alley and the Rose and Crown pub, while the health centre - which was shut at the time - remained closed for the rest of the day.
The scene was taped off by police while firefighters investigated. Despite earlier fears, no leak was found and the all-clear was sounded shortly before 3pm.
It was initially believed the centre would have to close for up to three weeks, but it has seen been announced that repairs should be finished in about a week.
A Nuffield spokeswoman said: "The damage has now been assessed fully, and repair work is expected to take about seven days; during which time, members are invited to use any other Nuffield Health centre.
"We will ensure our members are kept up to date with news on where they can train and when the centre will reopen. We would like to thank our members for their patience while the work is completed.”
See Thursday's Observer for the full story.
