Controlled explosion amid east Belfast alert
A controlled explosion has been carried on a suspicious package at the centre of an ongoing security alert in east Belfast.
The item was discovered at the base of a lamp post on My Ladys Road on Wednesday morning.
The Army bomb squad has been tasked to the scene and roads have been cordoned, leading to long traffic delays.
Ulster Unionist Councillor Sonia Copeland said: “This security alert has caused serious disruption to people commuting to and from the city centre this morning and to local children making their way to school.
— Barbara McCann (@barbara_utv) September 2, 2015
“It is angering that we are not yet beyond security alerts, people should not have to be faced with this in 2015.
“Hopefully the police operation can be concluded quickly and safely to allow people to go about their business as normal.”
Ravenhill Rd, Belfast now closed between Ormeau Embankment & Woodstock Link due to ongoing My Ladys Rd security alert. Diversions in place.
— PSNI Road Policing (@PSNITraffic) September 2, 2015
Police said My Ladys Road has been closed between the Ravenhill Road and Ravenhill Street as investigations take place.
A spokeswoman added that part of the Ravenhill Road has also been closed, with city-bound traffic diverted onto the Ormeau Embankment.
Motorists and members of the public have been advised to avoid the area if possible.
Meanwhile there have been reports of long traffic delays and disruption to bus services in the area.
Metro 78 is diverted and there are knock on delays to East Belfast Services http://t.co/ii4lZOzflJ
— Translink (@Translink_NI) September 2, 2015
Police said a community centre has been opened at Ballarat Street for any evacuated residents.
