A major emergency operation is underway in the heart of Ipswich after construction workers unearthed a suspected unexploded ordnance from the Second World War. The discovery, made on Tuesday afternoon, has thrown the town into lockdown, prompting a large-scale evacuation of the immediate area.
The potentially lethal device was found near the historic Ipswich Town Hall and the Cornhill, a central civic and commercial hub. In response, a 200-metre cordon was immediately established by emergency services, with police urging the public to avoid the area entirely.
Transport and Infrastructure Brought to a Standstill
The security alert has caused significant disruption across the town. Key transport links have been severed, with several major roads closed to traffic. Rail services have also been heavily impacted; Greater Anglia trains are unable to serve Ipswich station, with disruptions expected to continue through the evening rush hour and potentially into Wednesday.
Numerous buildings within the cordon, including the town hall itself, have been evacuated as a precaution. The public has been told that Ipswich Library will remain closed for the rest of the day.
Bomb Disposal Experts Take Charge
Specialist officers from the Royal Logistics Corps Bomb Disposal team have been dispatched to the scene to assess the device and make it safe. Their investigation will determine the necessary course of action, which could involve a controlled detonation.
A Suffolk Police spokesperson stated: “The initial report suggests the device is from the Second World War. The bomb disposal team will need to examine it to confirm its type and condition. Public safety remains our absolute priority.”
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the lasting legacy of the war, with unexploded bombs still being discovered decades later, often during modern construction projects.
