ABOUT 70 people were evacuated from businesses and homes around Albert Street and Prospect Hill after a suspicious package was discovered on a business premises located on Albert Street.

The package has now been confirmed safe and the roads have been reopened after officers cornered off a 100m area around the building.

The British Army's Explosives Ordnance Disposal, a specialist unit responsible for counter terrorist bomb disposal, attended the scene.

People were told to avoid the area until the situation was resolved.

Detective Superintendent Stephen Quinn said: "We would like to thank everyone in the area for their ongoing cooperation. We are conducting an investigation into this incident.

"At this time we cannot give any more details about the package but we will make a further statement when it is appropriate."

There were reports on social media of a heavy police presence around Sainsbury’s following the discovery, which was reported to police at about noon today.

More details to follow.

Members of the public have posted on social media following the news.