POLICE remain guarding a large cannabis factory found just off a busy Southampton street.

READ MORE: Police raid high street cannabis factory

Between 500 and 1,000 cannabis plants have been found after officers raided a warehouse off Portswood Road. 

Daily Echo: Officers carrying out investigations in Portswoo Road, SouthamptonOfficers carrying out investigations in Portswoo Road, Southampton (Image: Daily Echo)

Witnesses have described how police cut through the doors of the building on Friday afternoon. 

Two patrol cars can be seen stationed at the entrance of an alley between Victory Gospel Church and Admiral Casino. 

Why are police in Portswood?

Police are investigating a cannabis factory found at an old warehouse behind Portswood Road. 

Officers have been carrying out enquiries since Friday and a cordon is in place. 

Daily Echo: Patrol cars outside Victory Gospel Church, SouthamptonPatrol cars outside Victory Gospel Church, Southampton (Image: Daily Echo)

The exact number of plants is yet to be determined, however, the 'factory' is estimated to contain between 500 and 1,000 plants.

Why are there roadworks on Portswood Road?

SSE workers were in the area through much of Saturday.

According to engineers on the scene, they were working to cut the power supply to the cannabis factory. 

The firm has declined to comment further saying the investigation is a police matter. 

Who has been arrested?

Police say that no one was found at the warehouse.

However, it is believed two people were living and working at the site. 

Daily Echo: Hampshire police officers outside the Portswood cannabis factory.Hampshire police officers outside the Portswood cannabis factory. (Image: Daily Echo)

Updates

A police spokesperson has said that officers had to wait for SSE to ensure the property was safe before making 'detailed enquiries' within.

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