"Two pipe bombs" found in North Belfast

By Adam Evans

We're told two pipe bombs have been found by workmen in North Belfast.

Local Councillor, JJ Magee says he's relieved no-one was hurt after they were discovered in New Lodge this morning.

The PSNI says cordons are in place near a community centre in the Churchill Street area.

A number of homes have been evacuated as a security alert continues.

Police at scene of security alert in north Belfast following discovery of 2 suspicious objects close to community centre in Churchill St area. No of houses evacuated - community centre in North Queen St opened to provide accommodation for those residents moved from their homes.

— PSNI North Belfast (@PSNIBelfastN) August 22, 2018

Inspector Robert McMurran said:  "Police are currently at the scene of a security alert in north Belfast following the discovery of two suspicious objects close to a community centre in the Churchill Street area around 1pm today, Wednesday 22 August.

"Cordons are in place and a number of houses have been evacuated while we work to make the area safe. The community centre in North Queen Street has been opened to provide accommodation for those residents who have been moved from their homes.

"The Antrim road remains open to traffic but there is no access from it to Churchill Street.    Churchill Street, Carlisle Parade and Carlisle Terrace are closed to traffic.  Lepper Street is closed at its junctions with Churchill Street and Dawson Street. A number of diversions are in place."