Homes and businesses have been evacuated following an underground gas leak.

A gas pipe running under several properties in Denton has been found to be leaking, causing police and the Cadent gas company to evacuate eight homes and businesses in the area. The nearby Sainsbury’s petrol station on Oldham Street is also understood to have temporarily closed as repairs are underway – the main store is still trading.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed officers were called to the scene earlier today, but say they are now ‘scaling back their involvement as the cause has been found so repair works are ongoing’. Gas network Cadent told the Manchester Evening News: “We are on-site dealing with a leak on a gas pipe that runs beneath Oldham Street and Catherine Street West. While our teams locate the exact source, it was felt appropriate to evacuate eight properties.

READ MORE: Today’s top Manchester Evening News stories

READ MORE:Join the FREE Manchester Evening News WhatsApp community

“Some road closures are in place to make sure everything is kept safe. We appreciate everyone’s patience while our teams continue this work.

“There is currently no impact to gas supply into local homes. Everything is under control. We are hopeful to have everyone back in their homes within a few hours and the roads reopened.

“If you ever smell gas, please do not assume it is related to this – it may not be and needs to be checked. Act immediately and call the national gas emergency service on 0800 111 999, day or night. All calls are recorded and may be monitored.”

A Sainsbury’s spokesperson said: “The petrol filling station at our Denton store has temporarily closed so that works in the area can be completed safely. Our supermarket is still open to customers and we are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.”