MIDDLESEX COUNTY, ONT. -- Numerous downtown buildings were evacuated Thursday morning after a construction crew hit a major gas main around 11 a.m.

Workers were digging in the area of Albert and Richmond streets when the line was struck.

Gas could reportedly be smelled for several blocks, prompting numerous 911 calls.

London police and London fire crews helped people leave the area and a London Transit Commission bus was brought in to provide shelter.

About 50 people were removed from the area, including those in a dental office and a group home.

Enbridge Gas was called in to repair the break, which took about an hour.

Afterwards everyone was able to return to the homes and businesses in the evacuated area.