WW2 bomb in Plymouth latest: 'Big bang' as WW2 bomb disarmed

Key Points:

• Plymouth City Council reported that bomb disposal specialists worked tirelessly to secure a WWII bomb, using extensive mitigation measures including surrounding the device with hundreds of tonnes of sand and protective structures to nearby buildings before safely detonating it.
• The bomb, containing a complex two-fuse design, could not be safely removed without detonation, which occurred around 11:15 BST, followed by thorough safety inspections and a maintained 400m cordon preventing residents from returning home immediately.
• Residents evacuated from the Southway area expressed relief and anxiety, with some sharing personal experiences of multiple evacuations due to WWII bombs and the disruptive impact on daily life, while local authorities and housing associations provided support including accommodation and financial assistance.
• Eyewitnesses described the detonation as a loud bang causing car alarms to sound and smoke to appear, with some residents finding the explosion triggering due to past military experiences; police and emergency services continue to manage the scene with drones and robots aiding bomb disposal efforts.
• Local officials emphasized that safety remains the top priority, urging patience as vital checks and cleanup operations are completed before lifting the evacuation cordon, and praised the bomb disposal teams for their professionalism and dedication during the operation.