AN old bank building has collapsed in Thurso leaving several surrounding streets closed.
Large sandstone blocks from the former Clydesdale Bank building fell onto the pavement and road at around 3.30am on Monday leading police to close the A9.
The public have been told to stay clear of the site on Traill Street, which remains shut in both directions.
It is understood no one has been injured.
Images shared online show a police cordon and rubble strewn across the road, while large sandstone blocks can be seen shattered outside the front of the building.
📹Police have cordoned off a number of streets in the centre of #Thurso after a row of large sandstone blocks on the former Clydesdale Bank building have fallen onto the pavement and road below. pic.twitter.com/3jloav2KLK
— Linda Sinclair (@lindajsinclair) May 1, 2023
SNP Councillor Raymond Bremner shared images of the damage and stated: “Council Officers were made aware at about 4am/5am by local police and were awaiting BEAR Scotland’s arrival but take care around the area.
“Building Standards have been made aware also.”
Caithness, Sutherland and Ross MSP Maree Todd described the incident as "frightening".
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 3.35am on Monday, May 1, we were called to reports of damage to a building in Traill Street, Thurso.
Frightening! Very glad that nobody was injured. https://t.co/jtJ97He8bY
— Maree Todd (@MareeToddMSP) May 1, 2023
“The road is currently closed whilst arrangements are made to remove the debris. The road is currently closed at the junction of Sir George’s Street, Olrig Street, Cowie Lane and Mansons Lane.
“Members of the public are being advised to avoid the area meantime.”
