Block of flats evacuated after ‘armed man’ sends people running for refuge

Armed police were called to the incident outside a block of flats in Sheffield last night (Picture: LNP)

People are taking shelter in a Sheffield sports centre after an armed man was spotted in the city.

Residents of The Gateway block of flats were told to take refuge at the Ponds Forge Sports centre while students in a nearby halls of residence were ordered to stay inside.

The situation started to unfold shortly after 7pm yesterday and is continying into this morning.

Police said in a statement: ‘Just after 7pm last night (Monday 10 February) we responded to concerns for a man inside a property, alleged to have weapons and pose a risk to himself.

‘Those within the building where the property is have been evacuated and those wtihin the neighbouring buildings have been asked to stay indoors while officers conduct their work.

This morning they added that road closures remain in place on Sheffield Parkway and emergency crews remain on the scene in Broad Street.

Emergency services are seen outside the block of flats (Picture: LNP)

People were evacuated from the building by police (Picture: LNP)

Commuters are advised to avoid the area which is still closed to drivers this morning.

People on social media have been complaining about heavy traffic around the area this morning.

Police also confirmed that the tram network is also affected.

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