Armed police were today laying siege to an evacuated apartment block amid fears that a man was inside with explosives and weapons.

Residents of the block of flats in Sheffield city centre were evacuated last night (mon) as police rushed to the scene and the area brought to a standstill.

The residents from The Gateway block had to walk two miles to the Ponds Forge International Sports Centre after police ordered them to get out at around 7.20pm last night (Mon).

Armed police have been seen responding to the incident, and those in nearby properties have been ordered to remain indoors.

One student, who did not wish to be named, said they were forced to evacuate following claims made by a man in the flats that he was in possession of both explosives and weapons.

A 300 metre stretch of the city's major ring road is closed while buses and trams remain disrupted, bringing the city to a standstill.

One man who said he lives directly under the flat where police are reportedly negotiating with a man said: "It was around 7pm and my girlfriend said she heard a loud bang. "

"Then I heard another bang like someone was messing around on a balcony. "

"Then, at 7:20pm, police came banging on the door really loudly. They told us we had to get out." "

In a statement, South Yorkshire Police said: "The Sheffield Parkway is closed in both directions between Park Square roundabout and Derek Dooley Way as emergency services respond to concerns for a man inside a property."

"We, alongside other emergency services remain on scene at Broad Street in Sheffield."

"Just after 7pm we responded to concerns for a man inside a property, alleged to have weapons and pose a risk to himself."

"Those within the building where the property is have been evacuated and those within the neighbouring buildings have been asked to stay indoors while officers conduct their work."

"The Sheffield Parkway, between Park Square roundabout and Derek Dooley Way remains shut. Please plan, and find an alternative route this morning."

"Trams are also affected in the area and those travelling are advised to check Travel South Yorkshire."