Derby centre evacuated after chlorine leak, 15 hospitalized

A suspected chlorine leak at a popular leisure centre and water park in Derby prompted a major emergency response on Thursday, July 30, 2026, leading to the evacuation of the facility and multiple people being taken to hospital with breathing difficulties.

The incident occurred at Moorways Sports Village on Moor Lane in Allenton shortly after 1:30 p.m. Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service was alerted at 1:38 p.m. following reports of a potential chemical leak. Fire crews from Ascot Drive and Kingsway stations in Derbyshire were joined by colleagues from Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service's Stapleford station. A specialist Environmental Protection Unit from Stockhill was also deployed to the scene.

Emergency services confirmed that a number of people at the centre began experiencing respiratory issues. The East Midlands Ambulance Service dispatched its Hazardous Area Response Team, two duty commanders, and six ambulances. While initial reports indicated around 12 individuals were being assessed by paramedics for breathing difficulties, officials later stated that 15 patients were transported to Royal Derby Hospital for treatment.

One mother who was at the water park with her...