Downing Centre evacuated and nearby apartment loses power after water main burst
The Downing Centre court and several neighbouring buildings in Sydney’s CBD have been evacuated after a burst water main inundated the area.
NSW
Don't miss out on the headlines from NSW. Followed categories will be added to My News.
A burst underground water main in Sydney’s CBD has forced the evacuation of the Downing Centre court complex, disrupting proceedings and affecting hundreds of people.
The incident, which occurred at about 9.45am on Tuesday at Castlereagh St, also caused power outages in neighbouring apartment buildings, leaving residents without electricity.
Nearby streets were flooded also and hundreds of evacuees huddled outside the Downing Centre.
Police are heading to the scene to assist with the evacuation.
A District Court spokesperson confirmed power has been affected as a result.
“Please be aware that a burst water main on Castlereagh Street that has caused a power outage in the Downing Centre and some neighbouring buildings.
“We will update you as soon as we can in relation to Court sittings for today and moving forward.”
It is unknown when court will reopen but may cause significant disruption to the court diary with 562 matters listed at the Downing Centre.
Addressing the media Detective Inspector Gary Coffey said it was “very unlikely” the matters listed would be heard today, saying the operational was
still very much in the “response stage”
Parts of Downing Centre’s basement was flooded however the holding cells, where 13 people were in custody awaiting matters in court, were not affected Inspector Coffey said.
Arrangements have now been made for those people to be transferred to the cells at nearby Central Court.
Two people required rescuing after they became trapped in an elevator, which was travelling between floors when the power went out.
Superintendent Adam Newberry said crews are working to contain a large quantity of water which is escaping from the water main
Do you know more? Message 0481 056 618 or email tips@dailytelegraph.com.au
More Coverage
Originally published as Downing Centre evacuated and nearby apartment loses power after water main burst
Person pulled from burning north shore home
A person has been pulled from a burning townhouse in Cremorne, with multiple fire crews and paramedics responding to the unfolding emergency on Sydney’s north shore.
Read more
‘Abhorrent’: Sad truth about kebab worker
A woman hit with bullets while working in a kebab shop kitchen is the latest in a terrifying list of innocent victims caught in a worsening crisis.
Read more
‘Unnecessary’: Aaron Woods hits back at Slater’s remarks
Former NRL star-turned radio host Aaron Woods has stood by his “grub” sledge against Billy Slater, and argued the Queensland Origin coach went too far with his emotional retaliation.
Read more
Four teens charged over six-hour sexual assault of Sydney girl
Four teens have been charged over the alleged six-hour sexual assault of a 17-year-old girl in Sydney’s west.
Read more
Sydney council slugs ratepayers with 25 per cent rate hike
Residents have been hit with a huge rate hike after a rowdy council meeting on Sydney’s northern beaches, and a divisive local protest campaign. Here’s the latest.
Read more
Closures hit record high: Risky business as thousands go bust
Food services and construction firms are leading a record wave of business collapses in NSW, with nearly 7000 closures in just 11 months prompting urgent calls for government action.
Read more