Watch controlled explosion of World War Two bomb in Exeter
Thousands were evacuated from their homes.
Last updated 28th Feb 2021
A suspected World War Two bomb in Exeter has been detonated in a controlled explosion yesterday evening.
Devon and Cornwall Police declared a major incident after the discovery at a building site on Friday morning.
The initial cordon was widened to around 400m on Saturday, which led to the evacuation of more than 2,500 properties.
Royal Navy bomb disposal experts and Army personnel were involved in the operation.
Debris from the blast was thrown at least 250m and left a crater around the size of a double-decker bus.
Residents were told not to return to their homes on Saturday night while further safety tests were carried out.
However, Devon and Cornwall Police have confirmed there were no public health concerns around the detonation.
This is the moment the bomb was detonated:
"The controlled detonation of a suspected World War Two bomb unearthed near Exeter University yesterday, occurred at 6.10pm this evening, Saturday 27 February.
"The safety of people continues to be paramount. Upwards of 2,600 properties in the Glenthorne Road area, where the device was located, were evacuated by 10.30am this morning.
"The 400-metre cordon will remain until further notice, so residents should not return home this evening.
"Devon County Council and Exeter Council have been working to support evacuated residents.
"Any local residents who are worried or concerned can phone Devon County Council on 0345 155 1015 for advice on accommodation and other support.
"The line will be open until midnight this evening, Saturday 27 February.
"Around 400-tonnes of sand was transported to the site of the device, which is at a building site on private land, and walls were erected, initially by the Royal Navy bomb disposal experts, followed by Army personnel from the Royal Logistics Corps, to mitigate the impact of the detonation. Trenches were also dug to prevent ground shock.
"Despite these mitigation measures, the impact of the blast has been significant and debris has been thrown at least 250-metres away. The crater is around the size of a double decker bus.
"People can be reassured that there are no concerns regarding the impact of the explosion, which caused a large plume of sand, on public health.
"Safety assessments are being conducted this evening and utility companies, including gas, electric and water, are also carrying out assessments".
Devon and Cornwall Police
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