Avon and Somerset Police confirmed that an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit carried out a controlled explosion in Bristol city centre on the morning of 23 October 2026, after a man was seen leaving a suspicious item in the area.
The incident was reported this morning, and a police cordon was put in place on Park Street. The controlled explosion took place at around 11am.
Police confirm controlled explosion
A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said: "EOD carried out a controlled explosion of the item as a precaution shortly after 11am. The cordon has been reduced as a result. Work to reopen roads will begin as soon as possible."
Park Street was closed between Unity Street and St George's Road, with people told to "expect delays". TravelWEST posted that motorists should "avoid the route".
Road closure and response
The closure affected a major road in the city centre, and 999 crews responded to the scene. The cordon has now been reduced, and work to reopen the roads is expected to begin as soon as possible.