Derby families await green light to return home after 200 houses evacuated amid bomb scare
Residents of around 200 homes have spent the night away from their homes after bomb disposal experts were deployed.
Last updated 8 hours ago
Families in Derby are awaiting the go-ahead to return home after around 200 houses were evacuated yesterday amid a bomb scare.
A controlled explosion was carried out in the Vulcan Street area and a strict cordon was put in place, barring people from Vulcan Street, Shaftsbury Crescent, and Reeves Road, as well as areas of Harrington Street, Baseball Drive, and Cambridge Street.
Two men remain in police custody this morning on suspicion of explosives offences. Police are not treating it as a terrorism incident.
Though people have not been allowed back home yet, those who needed access - like to collect vital medication - have been allowed back through the cordon accompanied by an officer. Residents have limited access beyond the cordon until 8am today, after which, no access will be granted until further updates are shared.
Superintendent Becky Webster, said: “I want to thank all those who have been affected by the evacuation for their understanding and response.
“Being asked to leave your home under such circumstances is understandably concerning and the support that the emergency services have had has been excellent.
“The work to ensure the safe return of those who have been displaced continues by colleagues from the Army but, unfortunately, that will have to be paused overnight and resumed in the morning.
“The safety of everyone in the area is our number one priority and we are doing all we can to bring this incident to a conclusion as quickly, and safely, as possible.”
An assembly point was set-up for residents affected at the Pakistani Community Centre, 103 Harrington St, DE23 8PB, with a rest centre in place at The Salvation Army, 38 Osmaston Road, DE1 2HU.
A meeting is taking place at 8am today and a further update will be shared.