Deadly chemical detected in building

A council building has been evacuated after reports of potentially deadly chemicals inside.

The Information Service in Newport had to be evacuated after reports that the basement contained a chemical which can kill in minutes.

Hydrogen sulphide, one of the chemicals detected, can lead to collapse, inability to breathe and death within minutes at high concentrations, according to Public Health England (PHE).

The building now remains closed until further notice.

A South Wales Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman said: “South Wales Fire and Rescue Service received a call at 10.08am to reports of carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulphide readings in the basement of the Information Station. The building was evacuated and crews from Malpas and Maindee are in attendance.”

PHE describes hydrogen sulphide as very toxic and can be produced naturally and through human activity.

Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas with no smell or taste and can also kill.

The Information Station houses a number of Newport council services including council tax, housing benefits and blue badges.

In a statement, Newport Council advises anyone wanting to contact the council to do so by email at info@newport.gov.uk