Security staff have shut the doors to Westminster Magistrates’ Court
Dozens of firefighters are dealing with serious flooding around Marylebone after a 9cm water main burst. Some 14 people living in ground floor and basement homes have had to be evacuated and Westminster Magistrates’ Court has had to close because it has lost its water supply.
Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters are dealing with flooding in the area around Enford Street in Marylebone, the London Fire Brigade (LFB) said. A burst water main has caused flooding across an area of around 200m by 100m, affecting multiple basement flats on Enford Street and York Street.
LFB station commander Brien O’Keeffe said: “Crews are working hard to assist partner agencies to resolve the incident as quickly as possible in a safe manner and are continuing to support local businesses and the community.
“Members of the public are advised to avoid the local area whilst the incident is being resolved. Traffic restrictions are in place on Marylebone Road, Seymour Place, Crawford Street and Gloucester Place.”
Security staff have shut the doors to the court on Marylebone Road this morning (Thursday, September 25) when Manchester Arena bomb plotter Hashem Abedi was among those due to appear. Lawyers and other court users stood around outside the busy court waiting for updates from staff.
Westminster deals with some of the most serious cases including terror and extradition, and is where the chief magistrate sits. Court staff said there was no water in the building and that it was a public health risk.
The LFB’s control officers took the first of 15 calls to the incident at 5.20am and sent crews from Paddington, Euston, Soho, Chelsea, Kentish Town and surrounding fire stations to the scene.
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