Lincoln bomb scare: City centre on LOCKDOWN as ‘unidentified package’ found on bus
LINCOLN’S city centre was today put on lockdown and bomb experts were called after an “unidentified package” was found on a bus.
Lincoln Bus Station: Police cordon area after 'bomb scare'
Lincoln Central Bus Station on Oxford Street was evacuated at around midday and the surrounding area was cordoned off as the suspicious package was investigated.
Bud and train services were halted after the package was found by a driver on a bus.
The city’s railway station was closed and East Midlands Train services were suspended.
A number of roads and car parks were closed as part of the large cordon, which reached up to the High Street.
City of Lincoln Council said on Twitter at 12.11pm that the area was being evacuated after the package was found.
The council said: “Due to an unidentified package being found on an incoming bus, we have taken the precautionary action of clearing Lincoln Central bus station while it is investigated.
“We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and we will provide you with any updates as they are received.”
Chief Inspector Stewart Brinn said in a statement: "A bus driver reported finding a suspicious package on one of the buses at about midday.
"Bomb disposal have turned up and are assessing whether there is any danger to the public or not.
"At that point once we know whether it is a viable device or not we will be able to lift any restrictions.”
The council said on Twitter at 3.30pm that the area was being reopened, hours after the closure started.
The council said: “The package discovered earlier today at Lincoln bus station has now been declared safe.
“A phased opening of the road network, bus and railway stations is taking place.
“Thanks for your patience and we apologise for any inconvenience this incident may have caused.”