Pictures from the scene as Head Street in Colchester is closed

Head Street, in Colchester town centre, has been shut by Essex Police.

Essex Fire Service is at the scene dealing with some damage to a building

Reporter Daniel Rees has been at the scene this morning and photos show the scale of the cordon in place.

The closure in place from the bottom of Headgate

A spokesman said: "We are on scene of an incident at Head Street, Colchester after we received reports of concerns for public safety.

"The road is currently closed while we and the fire brigade are on scene and dealing.

"If you can, please avoid the area."

Essex Fire Service are at the scene

It is believed there has been some damage, or some potential for damage, to a roof on a building next to the Odeon cinema.

Cinemagoers are being allowed through the cordon at the moment.

Read more:

• Head Street in Colchester town centre closed due to 'roof collapse'
• Live updates as police close Head Street in Colchester

A spokesman for Colchester Council said: "We're aware of the issue and our Building Control team are en route to assess the safety of the structure."

The cordon in place in Head Street

The road could be closed for some time.

Traffic is bad in the area and drivers have been advised to avoid it if possible.

Colchester's District Commander Rob Huddleston Tweeted earlier asking residents to avoid the area if possible.

He said: "Please avoid Colchester Town Centre supporting @ECFRS with a dangerous building and Head Street is closed."

Police officers are monitoring the cordon in Head Street