Liverpool City Council issued a statement to confirm the closure of Church Street.
A street in Liverpool city centre has been closed until further notice due to a risk posed by a damaged building. People are being urged to avoid Church Street after damage to the building where Next is located.
The incident is ongoing after Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service were alerted to the incident at 12.20pm. A piece of metal cladding at the front of the Next store is damaged because of Storm Darragh.
Liverpool City Council issued a statement to confirm the closure of Church Street. A spokesperson said: “Please be advised that Church Street in the city centre is now closed until further notice due to the risk posed by damage to a building. We kindly ask that you avoid the area for your safety.”
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A spokesperson for Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service said: “Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service is on scene at an incident on Church Street, Liverpool. A crew was alerted at 12.20 and they were on scene at 12.26.
“On arrival the crew found storm damage to the front of a Next shop involving a piece of metal cladding measuring approximately 2m by 20m. The crew cordoned off the area and the Next store and a neighbouring store were closed.
“Loose panelling was removed by the crew and one firefighter remained on the roof to watch for any further damage. Following a multi-agency meeting with Merseyside Police and Liverpool Council, Church Street and a junction on Lord Street have been closed.
The incident is ongoing so please avoid the area.”
Merseyside Police confirmed to the ECHO that they attended the scene to help Merseyside Fire and Rescue secure the area.
Storm Darragh has caused chaos across Merseyside today, with a number of cancellations and travel disruptions. The Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park was called off, as well as the race meeting at Aintree.
The Liverpool Christmas Market was also closed because of the weather with people’s safety being the priority. Merseyrail has suffered delays and cancellations due to the weather today.
