York Sport Village on the University’s Campus East was evacuated on 11 February 2025 due to a gas leak.
Fire crews from Acomb and Tadcaster attended a gas alarm at the fitness centre in Heslington at approximately 3.15pm.
The alarm was activated due to a chlorine leak and forced the sports village to close for the day.
One gym-goer, Eleanor Shaw said, “we were given emergency foil blankets and several fire engines surrounded the gym and pool.”
“Some people were in their swimming costumes even though it was very cold outside.”
A North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service Spokesperson said: “Crews entered the building wearing gas tight suits using a gas detector to locate and isolate the leak.”
In a post on Facebook York Sport Village said: “Due to an emergency alarm at York Sport Village, all members, staff, and customers have been safely evacuated.
“We will resume our regular opening hours starting on February 12 2025.”
The University Press Office has been contacted for a comment and they said: “York Sport Village was temporarily closed yesterday as a precaution after an emergency alarm was triggered and the necessary checks were carried out. The building has since reopened and normal service has resumed.
“We apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused and thank everyone for their patience.”