Asda HQ evacuated after ‘suspicious package’ found with Army bomb squad called in

Emergency services are in attendance at the scene, along with a team of Army bomb disposal officers, West Yorkshire Police confirmed.

In a statement, a spokesman said: “The building has been evacuated as a precaution and a cordon is in place. Motorists are asked to find alternative routes due to nearby road closures.”

Employees have gathered on the grass opposite the Asda headquarters.

Ambulance and police vehicles have been pictured while officers attempt to divert traffic away from the scene.

The force has also advised drivers and other members of the public to avoid the area in the city centre while they carry out investigations.

While enquiries into the package continue, current diversions have triggered widespread traffic disruption into the city centre.

Meanwhile, surrounding roads have been cordoned off by authorities.

Asda House is the central hub for the UK’s third-largest supermarket chain.

The state-of-the-art office complex on Great Wilson Street was officially opened in 1988 by the then-Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher.

Asda has been deeply tied to the city since its origin.

The company was founded in Leeds in 1949 as Associated Dairies and Farm Stores Ltd.

It was shortened to “Asda” in 1965.

This combined the names of the founding brothers, Asquith and Dairies.

While previously owned by US retail giant Walmart, Asda was bought by the Issa brothers and TDR Capital in 2021.