Three people have "sustained serious burn injuries" after a reported gas explosion at Chester Market.
Cheshire Fire said today: "Emergency services are currently at the scene of what is believed to have been a small gas explosion at a commercial premises within Chester Market.
"Three casualties have sustained serious burn injuries and have been taken to hospital in the care of paramedics.
"A cordon has been put in place and surrounding buildings evacuated as a precaution."
Three engines were sent to the scene after around 6.30pm and the fire service has also said that engineers have now isolated electricity and gas in the area.
One witness on Twitter said they saw "a few nasty injuries outside."
Cheshire Police said: "Emergency services are responding to what is thought to have been a gas explosion at a premises within the Chester Market development on Hunter Street.
"Three people have sustained serious burn injuries. They have been passed into the care of paramedics and are being conveyed to hospital."
SHARE, a charity for the homeless, said they were at the market this evening as some of their volunteers were present and about to receive an award from the High Sheriff.
The charity reassured people that everyone volunteer there is "all fine."
Councillor Louise Gittins, leader of Cheshire West Council, said: "My thoughts are with anyone who has been impacted by an incident in a new unit which is being fitted out in the Northgate Development.
"I hope the people working in the unit and anyone in the new market are safe."
Unconfirmed reports say an air ambulance was called to attend the scene.
The new Chester Market was opened only a few months ago and reports by Cheshire Live said a whopping 300,000 people visited the site in its first month after opening.
