Update following detonation of a WW2 bomb on Glenthorne Road, Exeter
Published: 28 February 2021
Following yesterday’s (Saturday 27 February) detonation of a World War Two bomb on Glenthorne Road, Exeter, teams from Devon County Council, Exeter City Council and Devon and Cornwall Police are on site today, assessing structural damage to surrounding properties.
Roads in the area remain closed and residents are being asked to please stay away from the area as the safety of the site is assessed.
Anyone who is concerned and is in need of accommodation or support can phone Devon County Council’s helpline on 0345 155 1015. The line will be open until 5pm this evening (Sunday 28 February), depending on developments.
Information is for people who have been evacuated from their properties is available at devon.cc/evacuate.
Cllr John Hart, Leader of Devon County Council, said:
“We realise this is a very distressing experience for local residents and the city as a whole. The safety of residents is our absolute priority, and we are moving as quickly as we can to clear debris from the area, assess structural damage to properties and facilities, and make the area safe for the return of residents as quickly as possible. In the meantime, we are asking residents for their understanding and to please stay away from the area.
“Please rest assured we are working closely with partners to support those in need and in particular our most vulnerable residents. We are providing accommodation for people who are unable to return to their homes and who cannot stay with friends and family. Anyone who is concerned and is in need of accommodation or support can phone our helpline on 0345 155 1015. The line will be open until 5pm this evening, depending on developments.
“Information and updates will be shared regularly. Please continue to check local media outlets, social media and radio stations. We will also be updating our Devon County Council webpages as information becomes available.”
Cllr Roger Croad, Devon County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community, Public Health, Transportation and Environmental Services said:
“My thoughts are with those affected by the ongoing situation. Thank you for your patience and understanding in what we understand is a very worrying time. Please continue to bear with us as the safety work continues.
“Teams from Devon and Cornwall Police, Exeter City Council, The University of Exeter and many other agencies have been working tirelessly in a bid to resolve the situation and to keep people safe. We will continue to work together to restore the area and look after all residents affected with accommodation and other specific needs.
“Exeter residents are encouraged to continue following Government guidelines of hands, face, space whilst they are displaced from their homes, and to do all they can to minimise any risk to others. I would like to share my thanks to all residents and everyone involved in managing and dealing with this ongoing incident.”
Cllr Phil Bialyk, Leader of Exeter City Council, said:
“I would like to thank everyone for their patience during this extraordinary incident, and to all the agencies who have worked together so well in dealing with the situation.
“We continue to monitor the scene with our partner organisations and my thoughts are with those who continue to be affected. Everyone is working to ensure that people get the help and support that they need.”