POLICE say a number of homes have now been evacuated over a security alert in Derry.
The alert was sparked after a member of staff at St Columb’s College this morning found a suspicious object near the school at Collon Lane.
In an update this afternoon, PSNI Inspector Vince Redmond said: “Our officers remain at the scene of a security alert in the Buncrana Road area of Derry following the discovery of a suspicious object this morning.
“A number of homes have now been evacuated in the Slievemore area.
“Templemore Sports Complex has been opened as a rest centre.
“We appreciate the disruption this is having.
“We will work to ensure this is kept to a minimum. We want to thank the community for their patience.
“We will keep you updated.”
St Columb’s College has also been evacuated and a number of cordons had been put in place in the immediate area.
Sinn Féin Foyle MLA Karen Mullan said the alert had caused “major disruption” in the area.
“This is disgraceful and the last thing that pupils, teachers and parents need this morning, particularly as children return to the first day back after the break,” the Foyle MLA said.
“I would urge people to avoid the area until the alert ends.”
