Whitehall has been closed by police after a car crashed into the gates of Downing Street.
One man has been arrested after the car hit the main gates of the famous street, where the Prime Minister and Chancellor live. Images on social media show emergency service vehicles attending the scene.
One image appears to show a white car with its boot open, wedged against the Downing Street gates.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed a man was arrested by armed officers on suspicion of criminal damage and dangerous driving after a car collided with the gates of Downing Street.
The force said there were no reports of any injuries and inquiries are ongoing.
In a statement released on Twitter, the Metropolitan Police said: "At around 16:20hrs a car collided with the gates of Downing Street on Whitehall.
"Armed officers arrested a man at the scene on suspicion of criminal damage and dangerous driving.
"There are no reports of any injuries. Inquiries are ongoing."
Footage of the incident broadcast by the BBC appears to show the car slowing down before it hits the gate.
Large sections of Whitehall have been closed to the public and vehicles following the incident, with pedestrians being turned away from the main thoroughfare around Downing Street in central London.
There is a significant police presence in the area. There are cordons around Whitehall with police officers blocking access to the street from outside the Ministry of Defence.
The incident comes as many civil servants are leaving their offices for the day in the area.
Witness Simon Parry, 44, said: "I heard a bang and looked up and saw loads of police with taser guns shouting at the man.
"A lot of police vehicles came very quickly and were very quick to evacuate the area."
READ MORE:
Two teenagers drown as warning issued over open water
Men punched and kicked to ground in 'despicable' attack
Accountant turned drug dealer breaks down in tears after judge's question
Fight in the street leads to petrol being poured over vehicle
