A major security alert unfolded on Friday afternoon at one of Devon's most popular coastal destinations, leading to significant disruption and emergency service deployment.
Beach and Roads Sealed Following Discovery
Torre Abbey Sands, Torquay's principal beach, was abruptly taped off alongside surrounding thoroughfares after members of the public reported finding a substantial metallic cylinder on the sand. The discovery occurred at approximately 4pm, triggering an immediate multi-agency response involving police and coastguard teams.
Emergency Services and Bomb Squad Deployment
An Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit, commonly referred to as a bomb squad, arrived at the scene shortly before 7pm to conduct a thorough assessment of the unidentified object. Initial witness accounts suggested the seafront was completely closed to both pedestrian and vehicular traffic, with police redirecting people away from the area.
One local observer reported seeing emergency services personnel on the scene, stating: "Possible unexploded device has been uncovered. Coastguard and police on [the] scene." Another witness advised avoiding Shedden Hill due to police blockades and the closure of the seafront.
Transport Disruption and Road Closures
The incident caused considerable travel disruption across the Torbay area. Traffic monitoring service Inrix confirmed the closure of the A379 Torbay Road in both directions from Palk Street to A3022 The Kings Drive, with additional closures affecting The King's Drive and Shedden Hill Road. These measures were implemented from approximately 4.50pm onwards.
Fluctuating Security Measures
Following the EOD unit's assessment, initial indications suggested the object was not deemed dangerous, with police beginning to remove cordons shortly after 7pm. However, in a subsequent development, the security perimeter was briefly reinstated, with emergency services once again moving people away from the beach area before the all-clear was finally given and cordons were permanently removed.
Ongoing Investigation and Official Response
Specific details regarding the nature and origin of the metallic cylinder remain unclear at this time. Devon and Cornwall Police have been approached for an official statement regarding the incident and their response protocol. The event serves as a reminder of the robust procedures in place for dealing with potential ordnance discoveries in coastal regions with historical significance.
