POLICE say a number of houses have been evacuated over a security alert in south Belfast.

According to the PSNI, the alert was sparked after a suspicious object was discovered on the Ormeau Road.

The road has been closed between Stranmillis embankment and University Street and diversions are in place.

Translink said its Metro 7A and 7B of Four Winds and Laurelgrove services are being diverted up the Ravenhill Road until further notice.