A gas leak in Islington has led to 350 residents being evacuated and engineers have explained that repairs cannot begin until the electricity is turned off.

Firefighters set a 50-metre cordon Parkhurst Road in Holloway today (November 4) at 12.57pm.

There were reports of a “strong smell of gas” and the road was shut for hours.

After investigating, Cadent engineers found that a blown electric cable had damaged a gas main, leading to a gas leak.

This situation led to the evacuation of several properties nearby as a safety measure.

Around 350 people have been evacuated from the area in total.

Cadent stated that while they have identified the source of the leak, repairs cannot start until UK Power Networks turns off the electricity.

Once the power is off, Cadent will proceed with repairs and check all affected properties to allow people back in.

Cadent thanked residents and shop owners for their patience during the incident.

We have approached UK Gas Power Networks for further information.

Pictures at the scene currently show at least four fire engines at the scene as the road is shut.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Firefighters are working alongside the gas board and multi-agency partners to make the scene safe and assist members of the public who have been evacuated. People are advised to avoid the area at this time.”

The full statement from Cadent reads: "Earlier today, Cadent engineers were called to an incident in Parkhurst Road, Holloway following several reports of a smell of gas.

"Upon further investigation, we found that an electric cable had blown and had damaged our gas main, causing a gas leak.

“We have now identified the source of the leak, however, we are not able to repair this until UK Power Networks have turned off the electricity. Once this is done, we will be able to repair the leak.

"As a result of the leak, we did have to evacuate several properties in the interests of safety.

“Once the leak is repaired, we will be able to check all properties and allow people back in.

“We are hopeful that we will be able to carry out this process as swiftly as possible. We thank all business owners and residents for their patience and understanding."