Residents have been evacuated from their homes overnight amid fears a nearby building could collapse.

Police worked throughout the evening to ensure neighbours of a structurally compromised building in Flying Horse Lane, Dover, were taken to safety.

It comes after the road closed in both directions yesterday afternoon amid concerns over the house’s stability.

Images sent to KentOnline show the property appearing to tilt precariously outwards towards the street.

Contractors were spotted putting two metal barriers in place due to fears of bricks falling onto the road at about midday yesterday.

However, more have since been placed in the narrow lane alongside additional ‘do not cross’ tape after police arrived shortly afterwards.

Speaking after some five properties were evacuated, a police spokeswoman said: “Kent Police attended Flying Horse Lane in Dover on the afternoon of Thursday, January 9 following concern for the stability of a building.

“Officers assisted with the temporary evacuation of some local residents as a precaution and steps were taken by the local authority to secure the building, which has been made safe.”

Those forced to leave their homes are understood to have been provided with alternative accommodation overnight.

Dover District Council (DDC) says the building will be monitored over the coming days.

A spokesperson said: “There was a structural issue with the roof which resulted in a bulge to the front wall of the property.

“The council has liaised with the owner of the building and a retaining scaffold has been erected to alleviate any risk to the public.

“Further works will be undertaken next week with respect to the roof.”

Shepherd Neame's Lord Nelson pub is a few metres down from the tilting property.

General manager Dan White, 49, of Eastry, explained the issue emerged yesterday.

"I came to work at about 11am and saw a cordon was being put in place in the lane at midday,” he said.

"Workers showed me the building and I was like 'wow'.

"Customers come from Flying Horse Lane so closing it is the right thing to do.

"The building has been empty for quite a few years."

Dover District Council has been approached for more information.