Roads closed and buses diverted as armed police seal off Sheffield streets over reports of 'suspicious device'
Buses are being diverted and drivers are being advised to plan their journeys as police cordon off a number of roads in a Sheffield suburb.
Since around 11am, South Yorkshire Police have been at the scene on Washington Road in the Sharrow area of Sheffield.
Armed officers have been seen patrolling a block of flats in the area, as residents are evacuated over reports of a ‘suspicious device’.
Fire engines and ambulances are also attending, with a number of roads blocked as emergency services continue their work.
Half of Washington Road, between its junctions with MacKenzie Street and Sharrow Lane remain closed.
Meanwhile Sharrow Lane, between Langdon Street and Club Garden Road, is also closed off.
Traffic monitoring website AA are also reporting roadworks down Club Garden Road, which may cause further problems for diverted drivers.
First Bus have announced that the 56 service has been diverted around Cemetery Road and Sharrow Lane as a result.
An announcement by the public transport operator added: “Washington Road has been closed by South Yorkshire Police.
“Services will be diverted via Cemetery Road and Sharrow Lane in both direction until further notice.
“We're sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.”