Final gas well investigative phase ongoing in Wheatley

The final phase of the gas well investigation in downtown Wheatley has begun, officials say.

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The work site has been expanded to store equipment needed for the work, officials said in a release Saturday. Elm Street and its sidewalk between 22 Elm and Erie Streets are closed to vehicles and pedestrians until the work is finished.

“This closure is a temporary necessity, and the roadway and sidewalk will reopen once the investigation work is completed,” the release said. “We apologize for any inconvenience.”

Demolition wrapped up recently in downtown Wheatley and work is beginning to determine if there are other hazardous wells on the site.

The work schedule is posted on the Let’s Talk Chatham-Kent Wheatley Updates webpage, at letstalkchatham-kent.ca/wheatley-updates.

Fire and emergency crews are connected to the project team and will respond if required according to the emergency response plan. Residents are urged to call 911 immediately if they smell gas.

Last month marked the third anniversary of the Aug. 26, 2021, gas explosion, linked to toxic hydrogen sulphide gas seeing through the ground in the downtown area.

The blast destroyed two buildings, damaged others and injured 20 people in the community.

An update concerning Wheatley’s revitalization, and the work of the recovery task force, is slated to come before council Monday night.

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