MOTORISTS heading into Warrington this morning are advised to check traffic before leaving after a major fire broke out at the former Mr Smiths nightclub overnight.
Firefighters were called to the iconic building after the roof collapsed following the blaze at 2am.
More than 50 fire fighters and 12 engines are tackling the fire.
The council has issued a statement telling people to avoid the area and expect delays.
Police have closed Parker Street in both directions between Museum Street and Bridge Street and say traffic is being affected on Mersey Street and Bridge Foot.
Wind is blowing smoke across the town cente and emergency services are telling people to keep their doors and windows shut.
The former club and Ritz cinema was set to become a youth zone run by a Warrington Youth Club with the council putting in £3 million to redevelop the building.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here