Houses were evacuated after a car crashed into a gas main.
The fire service, police and gas engineers were in attendance in Church Hill, Pulborough, at around 9.20pm last night.
A car was said to have crashed into a gas main which prompted houses nearby to be evacuated.
One witness said ten houses were evacuated near the scene.
West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service has confirmed that 30 people were evacuated from their homes and a 100 metre cordon was put in place.
The fire service said a "substantial amount of natural gas" was leaking.
Sussex Police closed the road while engineers inspected the gas main.
Fire crews from Billingshurst and Petworth were in attendance.
A spokeswoman said: “Nearby premises are currently being evacuated - please avoid travelling into the area and if nearby, keep your doors and windows shut.”
Another update today said: “The driver was unhurt and firefighters worked with Sussex Police to implement a 100 metre cordon.
"The gas board swiftly isolated the gas main and residents were able to return to their properties at 11.30pm.
“Fire crews left the scene shortly after and the incident was left in the care of the on-site engineer."
Southern Gas Networks have been approached for comment.
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