Gas leaks force evacuations in Sydney

Two separate early-morning gas leaks in Sydney forced the evacuation of 20 houses in the western suburbs and a nightclub in the city centre.

Firefighters were sent into the Ivy club on George Street when refrigerant gas leaked early on Tuesday.

Superintendent Paul Johnstone, of Fire & Rescue NSW, said three levels of the building were evacuated until the leak was stopped and the area was ventilated.

The building was reopened about 8.40am.

Meanwhile, about 20 houses were evacuated at Blacktown while gas company workers dug up and clamped a leak from a gas main, an operation that took three hours.

Supt Johnstone said about 30 residents were allowed back home just after 8am as firefighters monitored air quality.