Savile Row and nearby streets have been evacuated amid reports of an incident that required a “controlled explosion.”
The iconic Mayfair street, known for its array of bespoke and high-end men’s tailoring stores, was cleared of pedestrians and shop staff on Wednesday as police explored a potential threat.
Nearby New Burlington Street, as well as parts of Regent Street, were also sealed off by local authorities.
Businesses were evacuated around the area just after lunchtime, with staff members ordered to gather at assembly points near the stores.
According to eyewitness accounts, police had ordered teams to leave Savile Row stores “immediately,” but it was initially unclear what the threat was.
Onlookers were then instructed to stand behind a police cordon that had been established near the Royal Academy.
“They evacuated the whole street and are carrying out a controlled explosion,” an eyewitness told The Standard. “There was just a loud bang and the police are moving everyone further away.”
Videos from the scene feature police as well as fire service on site, with police tape closing off a number of London streets.
Another eyewitness working on Regent Street said: “ we heard a lot of sirens and a bomb squad vehicle arrived.”
In a statement, Westminister Police confirmed that officers were investigating a suspicious vehicle in the area.
“Road closures are in place in the vicinity of Regent Street and New Burlington Street while officers investigate a suspicious vehicle. Officers have carried out a number of controlled explosions as a precautionary measure.”