Blantyre street evacuated after 'suspicious item' found near health centre

A street in Blantyre has been evacuated after a suspicious item was found near a health centre on Thursday morning.

Emergency services were called to Victoria Street at around 9.30am following the discovery within the grounds of the Blantyre Health Centre.

Officers have evacuated the building and the surrounding premises as a precaution.

The area has been taped off while the item is assessed.

Emergency services remain in attendance and the public has been urged to avoid the area.

The bomb disposal unit has also been called to the scene.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 9.30am on Thursday, April 23, 2026 police were called to a premises on Victoria Street in Blantyre following the discovery of a suspicious item within the grounds.

“The building and surrounding premises have been evacuated as a precaution and a cordon is in place to ensure the safety of the public while the item is assessed.

“Emergency services remain at the scene and the public should avoid the area.”

Pupils at Calderside Academy and Auchinraith Primary have been moved to other areas with their school buildings as a precaution.

Councillor Mo Razzaq said: “I want to reassure you that there is absolutely no danger to your child.

“This is a precautionary measure following an incident in the nearby area, which is currently being dealt with by Police Scotland.

“All actions are in line with police advice and procedure, and both schools are responding appropriately.

“Please do not be alarmed — your child is safe, and the schools are acting responsibly in line with the guidance they have received.

“I would ask that parents leave this with the school to deal with at this time. The schools are best placed to manage the situation, and any unnecessary contact may hinder their ability to do so effectively.

“Further updates will be provided to parents once the situation has been resolved.”