THERE was drama as a major North East leisure complex had to be fully evacuated last night as diners and cinema go-ers were told to leave.
Those at The Gate in Newcastle were evacuated from the enormous complex on Thursday night as customers reported staff directing them to exits.
Some reported being in the middle of screenings at the Cineworld Complex on the third floor while it is understood restaurant diners were the first to leave.
In a statement last night, bosses at the venue said the "identification of a safety concern with the building" had led to the closure.
Read more: Will The Gate in Newcastle reopen for weekend and are the police involved?
They said: "The Gate is temporarily closed.
"Following the identification of a safety concern with the building at The Gate, we have implemented a temporary closure (excluding the Mayfair and Hustle which remain open."
"We recognise the impact this closure will have on businesses and visitors of The Gate, and we are working to reopen as soon as it is safe and practical to do so.
"Thank you for your patience and understanding."
The leisure complex is home to the likes of Nando's, Pizza Hut, Starbucks and Wetherspoon.
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