Business is slow in Brent Cross as staff and shoppers are left stranded due to a burst water main on the North Circular.

Traffic is at a standstill in both directions and several bus routes have been diverted since water started flooding the road at approximately 8am this morning.

Alan Hedley duty manager at Tesco in Tilling Road, Cricklewood said: “We’ve got no staff and no customers.

“It’s normally very busy at this time in the morning but now we’re deserted.

“The road looks like an earthquake has hit it. It’s terrible really – all businesses will suffer today.”

Tom Nathan, general manager at Brent Cross Shopping Centre, said: “We’re fully open but people might not be able to get to us as easily by car and some buses have had to stop before coming here. Four bus routes are stopping at Golders Green and other depots.

“All stores are staffed but some staff might find it difficult to get in later.”