Emergency crews at the scene of a possible gas leak in Wheatley. (Photo courtesy of Chatham-Kent Fire and Emergency Services via Twitter)Emergency crews at the scene of a possible gas leak in Wheatley. (Photo courtesy of Chatham-Kent Fire and Emergency Services via Twitter)
Chatham

Province to investigate source of Wheatley gas leak

The province is stepping in to help identify the source of a gas leak detected in Wheatley on July 19.

The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry announced Tuesday it would take on the investigation to identify the source of the Wheatley gas leak and help prevent future occurrences.

Ministry officials say staff are consulting with industry experts to develop plans for the investigation.

The emergency declaration remains in place at 15 Erie Street North and will continue to be monitored. However, there has been no new detection of gas since the last report on July 19.

Municipal staff are working with the property owner and ministry staff to develop plans that will ensure the rescinding of the emergency declaration. Similar to the state of emergency in June, gas monitoring will continue after the declaration has ended.

"Given the reoccurrence of the gas detection, the ongoing monitoring offers an increased level of safety for those working in the building and ensures emergency services can be notified and a further public evacuation can be implemented, if needed," the report read.

The province will provide additional information to the municipality and the public as it becomes available.

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