Collapsed scaffolding in city centre leads to business being evacuated and '500 people' sent home

Businesses in Manchester had to be evacuated after part of a nearby building collapsed. Alberton House, near Bridge Street, is being demolished to make way for a new development. One person who works nearby said there was a 'strong earthquake like feeling' and that surrounding buildings were evacuated, with around 500 reportedly sent home from one neighbouring building. There are no reports of any injuries. A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue said: 'One fire engine from Manchester Central attended St Mary's Parsonage just after 2.50pm today after scaffolding on a building being demolished partially collapsed.' They confirmed that firefighters have now left the scene and it is being managed by council staff. George Jones, the founder and owner of Cardinal House, next door to the incident site, told the Manchester Evening News: 'We've had to evacuate, about 500 people have had to go for the day, I've got multiple businesses in here. We were aware of the renovations for sometime, but never been told that we would be in fear of safety or need to evacuate 'It felt and sounded like an earthquake. People have left because they don't feel safe. When we went around afterwards to speak to the workmen and they told us to evacuate the building. 'The scaffolding fell in the river and building was moving. I bought his building and turned it into a business centre a couple of years ago. When I went outside it looked like all smoke.' Some of the debris reportedly fell into the River Irwell beside the building. The Health and Safety Executive has been informed, it is understood. The site was once the home of the Albert Street Gas works, the first municipal gas suppliers in the world and later a police station The building is set to be replaced by a £93 million new build project which will include the UK's highest workspace pool. The 18-storey building will feature a panoramic roof terrace on the 17th floor, a gym and a restaurant.