RESIDENTS in an area of Gorleston were evacuated from their homes yesterday evening following reports of a “chemical” type smell coming from drains.The odour was reported coming from drains in the Trafalgar Road East area at 5.

RESIDENTS in an area of Gorleston were evacuated from their homes yesterday evening following reports of a “chemical” type smell coming from drains.

The odour was reported coming from drains in the Trafalgar Road East area at 5.25pm and as a precaution police and firefighters closed the road and evacuated a number of homes.

Investigations by water officials revealed the drains in that area had been cleaned in recent days and that the smell could have occurred as a result of the cleaning process. Officials confirmed the odour was well within the relevant safety levels.

The area was declared safe at 7pm and residents returned to their homes. Leaflets have been distributed to homes to inform and reassure those affected by the incident.

The cleaning works are expected to continue over the next few days and other homes may also experience an odour. Anyone affected in this manner is being advised to ventilate their homes by opening doors and windows.