A major security alert unfolded in Blackpool on New Year's Eve after police discovered explosive material at a residential address, leading to the arrest of a teenage boy.
Emergency Response on Gloucester Avenue
Officers from Lancashire Constabulary were called to a property on Gloucester Avenue at approximately 11.30am on Wednesday. Upon arrival, they found what was described as "a quantity of items of concern". The discovery prompted an immediate and large-scale emergency response.
A 16-year-old boy was subsequently arrested on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act. The scene, located about a mile from the famous Blackpool promenade, was quickly secured.
Bomb Disposal and Evacuations
As a precautionary measure, police evacuated a number of nearby properties to ensure public safety. Specialist bomb disposal units were deployed to the address to assess the potentially dangerous items.
The emergency operation involved a multi-agency effort, with Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service and the North West Ambulance Service supporting police officers at the scene. Footage from the area showed a significant police presence cordoning off Gloucester Avenue.
Ongoing Disruption on New Year's Eve
Chief Inspector Martin Wyatt of Lancashire Police confirmed that the emergency response was expected to continue into the evening of December 31st. He acknowledged the disruption caused to local residents during what is typically a festive period.
"We have a significant policing and emergency services presence in the area and we are asking people to avoid the area where they can," stated Ch Insp Wyatt. He added, "It is expected the response may last into this evening and I want to thank residents who have been affected for their support and cooperation while we go about our work."
Authorities moved to reassure the local community, emphasising that all efforts were being made to resolve the situation swiftly and safely. "We appreciate that this will be disruptive and concerning for the local community, but we want to reassure all residents we are working extremely hard with all our partners to make the address safe and bring this matter to as swift a conclusion as we can," Wyatt concluded.
The investigation remains ongoing, and the teenage suspect remains in police custody for questioning.
