Firefighters outside the centre in Endell Street [Photo: London Fire Brigade]

THE Oasis Sports Centre has been evacuated and shut for the evening after a suspected “chemical incident”.

The popular leisure centre and outdoor swimming pool in Endell Street, Holborn, has suffered a “technical fault”, according to operator Better Camden.

Hundreds of employees from nearby offices were evacuated and around 50 people escorted out of the leisure centre, the London Fire Brigade said.

Its statement added: “Firefighters are dealing with a chemical incident at a sports centre on Endell Street. Around 50 people from the sports centre and 10 people from a pub were evacuated. Hundreds of employees from the office block above the sports centre were sent home.

“We are likely to be at the incident for a number of hours until no harmful chemicals are detected. The roads around the incident are very busy so please avoid if possible.”

The scene outside the Oasis Sports Centre. [Photo: London Fire Brigade]

“My plans to go for a swim have been scuppered,” said centre member Becky Barnes. “Saw one person waiting for an ambulance but apparently no serious injuries.”

Better Camden said: “Oasis Sports Centre will remain closed for the rest of tonight. We expect the centre to open as normal tomorrow morning (August 1).”