Cordon set to be extended around unexploded bomb

THE cordon area around an unexploded bomb discovered in Keyham could be extended with more people likely to be forced to leave their homes.

Meanwhile a massive sand wall is to be built around the device so it can be safely exploded by bomb disposal experts.

Hundreds of people remained unable to return to their homes yesterday after the suspected World War II explosive was uncovered in a garden in St Michael Avenue on Tuesday, sparking a wide-reaching evacuation of Keyham and the surrounding areas.

The precise number of evacuees is not known, but according to police it is thought to be about 1,200, based on an average of 2.5 people for each evacuated property. That number could rise if the cordon is widened.

A number of streets remained cordoned off yesterday morning and hundreds of residents were still uncertain when they will be allowed to return to their homes.

But Plymouth City Council also warned that the cordon would be extended, with police sources saying it could be increased from 200 to 400 metres around the bomb.

A council spokesman said: "Experts are currently assessing all the measures needed to make the unexploded wartime device in St Michael Avenue, Keyham, safe, including the potential need for further residents to temporarily leave their homes.

"This is a complex incident and we appreciate the patience of residents while work to resolve it progresses.

"We must await the full assessment by those who will be making the device safe about the extent of area that needs to be evacuated while the work takes place."

We understand that this is a worrying time for everyone and want to provide accurate information as soon as have it."