Lakeside Shopping Centre evacuates people after power outage in Thurrock

The Lakeside Shopping Centre had to be evacuated as a huge blackout sparked chaos across the south of the county.

It is believed the outage happened just before 4pm.

All roads surrounding the shopping centre were been affected by heavy traffic. 

Power was back on by 7.30pm. 

Power has fully returned to Lakeside Shopping Centre and our leisure, restaurants and retail have reopened. We would like to extend our apologies for the inconvenience this has caused to our shoppers and thank you for your patience.

— Lakeside (@lakeside_tw) November 20, 2021

Earlier, the outage caused wide problems in Thurrock. 

NEW - Lakeside – due to a power failure shoppers at Lakeside shopping centre have been evacuated causing congestion in all surrounding roads pic.twitter.com/ON1xDuO5GV

— Essex Travel News (@Essex_Travel) November 20, 2021

An Essex Police spokesman said: "We are aware of a widespread power outage affecting the Thurrock district.

"UK Power Networks are working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

"Officers may be a visible presence in the area as a precautionary measure and are approachable should you have any concerns."

Lakeside shopping centre and retail parks all shut due to some reason, firealarm at the Shopping centre can be heard, massive traffic in the area with everyone leaving all at once

— Redz Ch (@RedzChowdhury) November 20, 2021

A spokesman for the Lakeside Shopping Centre added: "Due to a local power outage, we have had to close Lakeside Shopping Centre until further notice.

"The power is currently returning to all parts of the centre and once fully restored, we will open again.

"Apologise for any inconvenience caused."

More to follow.