South Bank evacuated: Four bridges over Thames closed due to 'suspicious package'

Police closed four bridges over the Thames today and ordered the evacuation of the South Bank, near the London Eye, over fears of a suspicious package.

Westminster Bridge and Waterloo Bridge, along with the Hungerford and Golden Jubilee footbridges were shut by officers, bringing the traffic in the area to a standstill.

An initial statement released by the Metropolitan Police confirmed the incident just after 11am.

It said: “A number of bridges in central London have been closed as a precaution while officers assess an unattended item in the vicinity of South Bank.

They are: Westminster Bridge, Waterloo Bridge, Hungerford and Golden Jubilee footbridges. Please use alternative routes.”

However, an update was issued at around 11.30am saying: “The unattended item has been assessed and was found not to be suspicious.

"Road closures will be lifted imminently. We thank the public for their cooperation."

The London Eye confirmed that the closure had taken place and that the tourist attraction had reopened.

The London Eye was shut down and the area was evacuated.

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