A World War Two bomb discovered in Northern Ireland has led to the evacuation of over 400 homes in Newtownards, County Down. The 500kg (1,100lb) air-dropped SC-500 German bomb was found at a building site at the Rivenwood housing development last Thursday, sparking a major security operation that could take up to five days to complete.
The bomb, believed to be around 83 years old, posed a significant risk to public safety despite its age. Military experts constructed a sand-filled structure around the device to reduce the potential damage from a controlled explosion.
Residents were evacuated from their homes on Saturday, with police issuing a stark warning about the dangers posed by the bomb. "Anyone within that [zone], without the mitigation, there is a serious risk of death or injury," said Superintendent Johnston McDowell, the PSNI District Commander for Ards and North Down.
The evacuation has caused significant disruption for residents, many of whom have been forced to stay with family or friends. The Ards Blair Mayne Wellbeing & Leisure Complex was set up as an emergency support center for those who could not find alternative accommodation.
The discovery of the bomb has brought back memories of the Belfast Blitz, a series of devastating air raids carried out by the Luftwaffe in April and May 1941. Dr James O'Neill from the Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum explained that inaccurate targeting during blackouts – and Strangford Lough being mistaken for Belfast Lough – meant bombs could have landed anywhere.
He said the bomb's blast range would be considerable, hence the efforts to mitigate the risk by piling sand on top of the device. "It is an extremely dangerous device and ATO will know full well the apparent dangers it poses to them as they carry out this operation," he added.
The operation continues as military experts work to safely neutralize the bomb. Police are working closely with partner agencies, including the NHS Trust, to support vulnerable residents who require access to medication or have been displaced due to the evacuation.
This incident highlights the ongoing legacy of World War Two in Northern Ireland. While munitions are occasionally found, they rarely cause such widespread disruption. The incident in Newtownards serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers these devices still pose, even decades after the conflict ended.
The Rivenwood Housing Development
The bomb was discovered at a building site at the Rivenwood housing development in Newtownards, Co. Down. The development is located in the Movilla Road area, with new houses under construction. The discovery of the bomb has halted construction work and forced the evacuation of residents from nearby homes.
The Evacuation
Police issued a leaflet to residents on Saturday requesting them to leave their homes by 10:00 BST on Sunday. The statement highlighted the "possibility of risk to life and property." A 400m (0.25 miles) cordon was put in place around the bomb site, impacting all homes and businesses within the radius.
Resident Reactions
Residents expressed concern and frustration about the evacuation. Joan McCabe, a resident who was about to move into a new home near the bomb site, said she was worried about her property. "My primary concern at this point is my new house, not the windows of this house." She added that residents were stressed and worried about the potential for damage to their homes.
David Lewis, another resident, spoke about the disruption his family was facing. "We’ve had to stay with my mum and dad, they’ve a 2-bedroom bungalow and there are five of us living with them along with the dogs." He added that his daughter was initially excited about the discovery of a war relic but is now petrified by the situation.
Stephanie O’Fee, who lives near the bomb site, said the evacuation was "very disruptive." She expressed concern about the lack of information about potential damage to properties and how to secure their homes to minimize any damage.
The Ongoing Operation
The security operation to make the device safe could take up to five days. Military experts are using diggers to pile sand on top of the bomb in preparation for a controlled explosion. Police have stressed that they will not take any risks during the operation.
Local Support
Local politicians have expressed concern for residents and urged them to follow police advice. DUP MP Jim Shannon said the police’s priority is to "minimise injury and loss of life." UUP MLA Mike Nesbitt highlighted the challenges faced by residents with pets. The Ards Blair Mayne leisure centre has been opened as an emergency support center for affected residents, providing bedding, food, and hot drinks.
The Lasting Legacy
The incident in Newtownards is a reminder of the enduring legacy of World War Two. Even decades after the conflict, the discovery of unexploded ordnance can still pose significant threats to public safety. The event has also highlighted the importance of community support and cooperation in responding to these challenges. As the security operation continues, residents remain hopeful for a swift and safe resolution, allowing them to return to their homes and rebuild their lives.
A Community in Uncertain Times
The discovery of the bomb has brought the community of Newtownards together, with residents offering support and assistance to one another. The incident has also sparked conversations about the importance of preparedness and the need to be aware of the potential dangers of unexploded ordnance.
While the situation remains uncertain, one thing is clear: the community of Newtownards will continue to stand strong in the face of adversity, drawing strength from their shared experience and unwavering resilience.
