Old Bailey evacuated due to nearby electrical fire
Smoke was seen pouring from an electrical substation.
Last updated 7th Feb 2024
The Old Bailey in central London has had to be evacuated because of a nearby electric fire.
Four fire engines and 25 fire fighters are on the scene on Warwick Lane - which is at the back of the Court.
Smoke was seen coming from an electrical substation in videos posted on social media on Wednesday lunchtime.
A loud bang was heard and black smoke billowed from near the historic building.
Dozens of barristers in black gowns and wigs lined the street on Wednesday morning following the fire alert at the Central Criminal Court in central London.
The Recorder of London, Judge Mark Lucraft KC, was seen liaising with court staff and firefighters who had entered the Old Bailey and gathered around Warwick Lane.
Barristers and other court users were told by security officials that they would not be allowed to go back inside until after safety checks had been carried out.
Defendants were seen being walked out of a side exit and into a waiting prison van.
They were escorted by uniformed City of London Police officers.
The Fire brigade are advising people to avoid the area as it's likely cause some problems with traffic.