The Gates close their gates after ‘gas leak’ evacuation

Pray for Poundland


Doors and shutters were locked after shoppers were evacuated from The Gates centre yesterday morning, following reports of a strong smell of gas.

The shopping centre is home to student favourites Poundland and Wilkos with several businesses including Result Fitness gym situated above.

Workers waited outside after being evacuated but were later told to go home for the rest of the day.

A spokesman for The Gates said: “The leak has been identified to be outside the grounds of the centre, but as a precaution The Gates is likely to be closed for most, if not all of today. We believe repairs are underway.”

Second year History student Jenna Hull, from JoBo told The Tab: “Durham can’t afford to lose any more shops, I still haven’t got over the loss of Bodycare.”