A routine visit and quick thinking from Merton Council staff helped prevent a potentially dangerous gas leak in a block of sheltered housing in Morden this week.

Merton housing staff smelt gas at 193 Central Road, a sheltered housing block accommodating nine residents, following a routine visit on Wednesday (16th December).

The leak was immediately reported to the gas suppliers SGN who shut down the gas supply and are now fitting a new main pipe which could take up to five days.

Of the tenants the council has contacted so far, all have opted to stay in their home. Each resident has been supplied with temporary heating, and all have cooking facilities, although there is no running hot water.

Cabinet member for housing and community services, Councillor Linda Scott said: “Quick thinking from council officers meant that a potentially dangerous situation was prevented. We’re in regular contact with the residents affected to ensure they are safe and cared for while the new gas main is being fitted. We will continue to monitor the situation and ensure that the gas company completes the work as quickly as possible.”

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