School evacuated in Swindon due to 'chemical smell'
Three people have been taken to hospital
Last updated 13th Sep 2023
A school has been evacuated in Swindon.
Fire crews have been in attendance at Brimble Hill School, located in the Tadpole Garden Village, which is for children with learning difficulties.
Dozens of parents have been driving in and out of the school grounds to pick up their children early.
The reason for the evacuation is believed to be a chemical smell.
Three people have been taken to hospital, but their condition is not serious.
Children at the nearby Uplands School have also been sent home.
Rob Reeve is a director for the Brunel Academies Trust, which oversees the two schools. In a statement, he said: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, which are currently under investigation by the emergency services, the decision has been taken to send Brimble Hill and Uplands School pupils home".
Mr Reeve added that the evacuation was a "precautionary measure".
In a statement, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service were called to Brimble Hill Primary School, Tadpole Lane, Blunsdon St Andrew, Swindon at 8:46am after reports of a chemical smell and some people feeling unwell.
"Crews from Westlea and Stratton attended and have been investigating the cause of the smell. The incident is ongoing and further specialist technical support is being provided by Avon Fire and Rescue Service to determine the cause of the smell.
"Three people have attended hospital with reported symptoms after being on site, but their condition is not serious. As a precaution, the school has been evacuated as was neighbouring Uplands School and Swindon Borough Council have been working with the schools to ensure pupils are returned home safely. A major incident has not been declared."