BREAKING: Shopping mall taped up and emergency services on site after ‘explosion’ reports – updates

A shopping center near Manchester city center was closed this afternoon after reports of an explosion.

White City Retail Park on Chester Road in Old Trafford is partially closed and emergency services are expected to be on the scene following the incident.

It is understood that Chester Road southbound from the city center is currently closed. Greater Manchester Fire Brigade, GMP and NWAS have been contacted for more information. Cadent Gas has confirmed technicians are on site but does not believe the incident is related to the gas network.

The exact nature of the incident, or its seriousness, has not yet been confirmed. Photos seen by the Manchester Evening News show several firefighters on the scene, as well as officers from the Greater Manchester Police Department. A number of popular shops are located in the retail park, including Aldi, Currys, M&S, Nando’s, The Gym and Furniture Village.

A spokesman for Cadent Gas told MEN: “We have arrived on the scene and are checking our assets, but there is no suggestion that this is connected to the gas network.”

We will bring you all the latest updates below.