LAKESIDE shopping centre was evacuated late this afternoon (Saturday, 20 November) following a power cut.

There were widespread and intermittent disruptions to power supply across west Thurrock this afternoon. Apart from Lakeside, the large Tesco superstore on the adjacent retail park was one of several businesses affected.

Cuts were reported in residential areas in South Ockendon and Chafford Hundred as well as those in West Thurrock.

Nub News understands power was restored to Lakeside after 4pm, with staff and shoppers outside. Emergency services were on the scene. Essex Fire and Rescue Service has confirmed its response in significant numbers was an automated one when some alarms were activated by the power cut.

It was reported that there are some people were stuck in lifts for periods of time.

A spokesperson for UK Power Networks told Thurrock Nub News: "Engineers worked as quickly as possible to restore electricity supplies to several thousand properties in the Thurrock area following a fault at a substation at 3.41pm today.

"All supplies were restored within half an hour by 4.08pm. We apologise to customers for the inconvenience caused."

A statement from Essex Police around 5.30pm said: "We are aware of a widespread power outage affecting the Thurrock district. UK Power Networks are working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. Officers may be a visible presence in the area as a precautionary measure and are approachable should you have any concerns.

"Please only call us on 101 if a collision has occurred or a crime has been committed. Please only call 999 in an emergency. Thank you for your patience."

The evacuation of Lakeside - with the subsequent sudden exodus of thousands of customers - and an accident on the approach to the Dartford crossing led to considerable road congestion across west Thurrock, with drivers describing the area as gridlocked.