The ongoing incident first started earlier this evening (Saturday, May 2) on Cowley Road in the city.

Thames Valley Police cars arrived at the scene along with several Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service fire engines.

Police officers cordoned off the scene with crime scene tape while firefighters tackled the smoke.

FOLLOW LIVE: Smoke billows from underground as police tape off Oxford street

Members of the public were warned to get back, away from the smoke, with many left scared of what was happening.

The force has now issued a full statement, warning residents nearby to close their windows due to the smoke.

A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police has said: “Cowley Road closed.

“Cowley Road is currently closed between the junctions with Leon Close/Bullingdon Road and Chapel Street.

READ MORE: Oxford University students ‘shocked’ as ‘flames erupt’ in city

“We are working alongside the Fire and Rescue Service and the electricity network provider while urgent work is carried out following reports of smoke coming from underground.

“At this time, we do not believe there is any risk to the wider public.

“However, residents in the immediate area are advised to keep windows and doors closed as a precaution.

“Anyone planning to travel along this section of Cowley Road this evening is asked to check ahead and avoid the area if possible.”

Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service has also been approached for comment.

The Didcot venue will showcase exhibitions, installations, and events throughout the building from Friday, May 1 to Saturday, May 30.

Featuring works in painting, sculpture, film, photography, ceramics, textiles, and mixed media, the programme explores themes of home, identity, and connection.

The gallery exhibition includes work by Amanda Benstead, Catherine Rye, Sue Chamberlin, and Lin Dewsnap.

Georgina Heritage, cabinet member for communities at South Oxfordshire District Council, said: “Cornerstone is a fabulous and welcoming community hub – you can see a show, take a class or just catch up over a coffee.

“The Artsweek Takeover is a great opportunity to discover Cornerstone, see something new, and connect with the stories behind the work.”

The auditorium will host SCRAPS, a queer art collective presenting its debut exhibition for one week.

Cornerstone has worked with Oxfordshire Artweeks for more than 15 years, but this is the first time it has hosted multiple exhibitions on this scale.

Esther Lafferty, festival director for Oxfordshire Artweeks, said: “We’re delighted to see such a wonderful collection of artists coming together at Cornerstone for Artweeks.

“We hope the skill and talent on display will remind visitors about the incredible creativity that is often hidden behind closed doors and that all they need is a little curiosity.”

Admission is free during Cornerstone’s opening hours, and further details are available on the venue’s website.

West Oxfordshire District Council is urging residents to ensure they have valid ID for the local election on Thursday, May 7.

Accepted forms of ID include UK, EEA, or Commonwealth passports and photo driver’s licences, as well as some concessionary travel passes such as older person’s bus passes.

Giles Hughes, returning officer for West Oxfordshire District Council, said: “Anyone voting at a polling station this May will need to show photo ID before they can be given their ballot paper.

“It’s important that everyone understands what types of ID they can use, and how to apply for free ID if they need it.”

Photographic ID can be expired, provided the image remains a true likeness of the voter, and the name on the ID must match the name on the electoral register.

Name change documents can be used alongside the photo ID if needed.

Only original documents will be accepted – photocopies or digital images will not be valid.

Residents who do not have an accepted photo ID had to apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate. The deadline to apply was 5pm on Tuesday, April 28.

Mr Hughes also urged residents to look out for those who may need support.

He added: “I would also ask people to check in with elderly neighbours, friends and family to make sure they understand the ID requirements and have ID in place.”