Police have cordoned off an area of The Forum in Stevenage this morning after a suspicious object was found in the car park near the TK Maxx store.

The Comet: Fire crews on standby next to Fairlands Way. Picture: SubmittedFire crews on standby next to Fairlands Way. Picture: Submitted (Image: Archant)

The Comet received reports that a device in the form of a polystyrene coffee cup with microchips attached was found by a member of Stevenage Borough Council staff near the store.

Police have cordoned off the area and specialist officers are at the scene.

A number of shops and businesses have been evacuated.

An army bomb disposal unit has been called to assess the device, and fire crews are also on standby at the scene.

The Comet: Traffic at the corner of St George's Way, Six Hills Way and the A602 in Stevenage after roads were closed during the bomb scare. Picture: Jeremy WilliamsTraffic at the corner of St George's Way, Six Hills Way and the A602 in Stevenage after roads were closed during the bomb scare. Picture: Jeremy Williams (Image: Archant)

Road closures are currently in place in St George’s Way at the junctions with Six Hills Way and Fairlands Way, so drivers are advised to avoid the area.

More updates here as we have them.