Exclusive: Family evacuated after Forties pipeline leak

A small number of people living in Aberdeenshire have been affected

Author: Phil McDonaldPublished 7th Dec 2017
Last updated 7th Dec 2017

Northsound can reveal that a leak in the Forties oil pipeline has forced evacuations and a road closure in Aberdeenshire.

A family living near Netherley were told to pack a bag when a routine inspection found a small leak at around 10:00am yesterday morning.

A 300 metre cordon has been set up around the site and the Netherley to Cookney road has been closed.

A statement from INEOS - the firm that owns the pipeline - said: "INEOS has mobilised a repair and oil spill response team.

"The response team monitored the situation throughout the night and further assessments are being conducted this morning.

"We are working with all relevant authorities to resolve the matter as early as possible.

"Health and safety is our utmost priority. As a standard precautionary measure, a 300-metre cordon has been set up around the site and a small number of local residents within this area have been advised to temporarily relocate.

"They have been offered temporary accommodation.

"As a result of the work, the unclassified CK12 Netherley to Cookney road has been closed by police and drivers are being advised to seek alternative routes.

"We will work to resolve the issue and monitor the situation.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused. We will provide more information when it becomes available."