COUNCIL inspectors have closed a road after investigating reports about the safety of a former theatre.

Concerns had been raised with Allerdale council about the safety of the roof of the old Opera House building on Ladies Walk/Tiffen Lane in Workington.

The structure has long been a concern for residents who have questioned its safety.

Building control inspectors have assured residents all ground-floor entry points to the building remain sealed. They ask people to avoid entering the building without the owner's consent, for their own safety.

Tiffin Lane has been closed and residents are asked to avoid the lane.

An inspection was carried out by Allerdale council under its dangerous structure powers. The authority said it would be in touch with the owners of the building.

A spokesman said: "Allerdale Council's building control officers have today been out to inspect the old Opera House building on Ladies Walk/Tiffen Lane in Workington, after concerns were raised about the condition of the roof. Some work was carried out on the roof structure to make the building safe."