Residents of Newtownards, County Down, were shocked and forced to evacuate their homes after the discovery of a suspected World War Two bomb at a building site in the Rivenwood housing development on Movilla Road. The incident has raised concerns about the safety and security of the community, with authorities taking swift action to ensure the well-being of all residents affected by the potential threat.
Evacuation Process
Ulster Unionist Party councillor Pete Wray revealed that approximately 450 households were impacted by the discovery of the suspected bomb. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) issued a leaflet to residents on Saturday evening, urging them to leave their homes by 10:00 BST on Sunday due to the “possibility of risk to life and property.” The evacuation order extended to all homes and businesses within a 400m radius of the munition, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and the need for immediate action.
At the scene, a police cordon was established at the top of Rivenwood Road, where new houses were still under construction. Residents were seen leaving the area, with many expressing their concerns and uncertainty about the situation. The bomb disposal unit and army personnel were on site, preparing for a controlled explosion to neutralize the potential threat. Despite the disruption and inconvenience caused by the evacuation, the safety of residents remained the top priority for authorities.
Developer’s Perspective
Developer James Fraser provided insights into the discovery of the suspected bomb, explaining that it was found by workers during ground works for a new phase of the housing development. With 40 homes under construction in the area, the safety of both residents and construction workers became a primary concern. The unforeseen presence of a World War Two bomb underscored the importance of thorough inspections and precautions in such development projects to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Fraser’s cooperation with authorities and the swift response to the situation demonstrated a commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals involved. The developer’s willingness to work closely with law enforcement and bomb disposal experts reflected a collaborative effort to address the potential threat effectively and minimize risks to the community.
Community Impact
The discovery of the suspected bomb in Newtownards has caused significant disruption to the local community, with residents forced to evacuate their homes and businesses for an extended period. The unexpected turn of events has left many individuals and families uncertain about their immediate future and the safety of their properties. The need for emergency support and assistance became evident as authorities worked to address the situation and provide necessary resources to those affected.
The Ards Blair Mayne leisure centre was designated as an “emergency support centre” for affected residents, offering a safe haven and essential services during the evacuation process. The establishment of such support centers highlighted the importance of community resilience and solidarity in times of crisis, as neighbors came together to support one another and overcome the challenges posed by the potential threat.
In conclusion, the evacuation of homes in Newtownards due to the suspected WW2 bomb site serves as a stark reminder of the lingering impact of past conflicts on present-day communities. The incident underscores the need for vigilance, preparedness, and cooperation among all stakeholders to prevent similar occurrences and ensure the safety and security of residents in the face of unforeseen threats. As authorities work to address the situation and protect the well-being of all individuals involved, the resilience and unity of the Newtownards community will undoubtedly shine through in the face of adversity.