Great Yarmouth bomb: Police chief explains disposal delay

The bomb was discovered on Tuesday morning during dredging work close to the ongoing development of the Third River Crossing.

Part of Southtown Road was closed and a 400m exclusion zone is in place.

Residents within 200m of the bomb have been evacuated while others have been advised to leave their homes.

On Thursday morning, Great Yarmouth's head of police superintendent Nathan Clark said: "It was all going to plan until about 9pm last night.

The 400 tonne sand blast wall being built around the bomb found in Great Yarmouth. (Image: Oliv3r Drone Photography) (Image: Oliv3r Drone Photography)

"Defences around the sandblast wall have been built and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team should have started cutting the bomb. However, with such an incident, calculations are absolutely necessary before each stage of the process."

Supt Clark said before the cutting began, the disposal team discovered gas pipes - leading to more than 100 properties and businesses in the area - were close to the confined blast area.

"We cannot be confident the blast from a controlled explosion won't rupture the gas pipes," Supt Clark said.

"The process has since been halted. 

"Currently, we are seeking scientific advice and running calculations about what our next steps may be.

"There is no quick solution. But ultimately, public safety is our top priority.

"The safest solution would be greatest on disruption."

The police cordon in place by Boundary Road, Southtown, Great Yarmouth. (Image: Denise Bradley) (Image: Denise Bradley)

Supt Clark said other solutions include avoiding a controlled detonation and lifting the device as it is.

"But that comes with massive risks and is never a first option," he said.

The superintendent said scientists from Porton Down are at the scene to advise on the best solution to defusing the bomb. Police experts are also running their own calculations.

Members from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team by the unexploded bomb in Great Yarmouth on Wednesday. (Image: Denise Bradley) (Image: Denise Bradley)

"All options are on the table," Supt Clark said.

"And together, we are all trying to find the best possible outcome.

"However, it means delays will continue for the public. Everyone has been exceptionally supportive throughout this process.

"We have a duty to the public to ensure they are safe.

"And the public is as safe as we've managed to make it."

Great Yarmouth superintendent Nathan Clark. (Image: Denise Bradley) (Image: Denise Bradley)

Supt Clark said the 200m exclusion zone remains unsafe, and people are still not able to go home.

"We are also still advising people in the 400m area to evacuate," Supt Clark said.

"The scientists are here, and we are effectively waiting for the best advice to come together. We will let the public know as soon as we know."