Police are at the scene of a security alert in Belfast this morning, with residents in the nearby area having been evacuated.
The PSNI said officers are at the scene with disruption in the area expected as a result.
It is understood the security alert is centred around a residential property, with the street cordoned off at the junction of Lamberg Street.
The property at the centre of the alert is in the vicinity of the Laganside Auctions building.
The business confirmed their staff have avoided having to be evacuated as a result.
Speaking to this newspaper, a member of staff at the business said: “It is just happening out the back of the building. It seems to be one of the houses out towards the back. One of our staff members approached the police officers and they said it was ok for us to remain.
“We have just been working away here.”
Meanwhile police have confirmed Olympia Leisure Centre is open for those who have had to leave their homes.
A spokesperson said: “Police are at the scene of a security alert in Empire Street, south Belfast this morning, Wednesday 29th January.
“Cordons are in place and the public are advised to avoid the area at this time.”