A historic World War Two bomb in Plymouth was successfully detonated on May 1, 2026, following the evacuation of approximately 1,260 households. The device, a 250kg German SC250 air-dropped weapon, was discovered on a building site.
The bomb was deemed too unstable to move, prompting authorities to conduct a controlled explosion in situ. An evacuation centre was established at Southway Youth and Community Centre to accommodate those displaced by the operation.
Officials implemented a 400-metre cordon around the site during the detonation. Residents received instructions to leave windows open and turn off water to minimize potential damage from the blast.
Approximately 450 tonnes of sand were placed around the bomb to mitigate the impact of the explosion. Despite these precautions, debris scattered across the area following the detonation.
Three local schools closed their doors for safety during the operation. Smoke was visible in the vicinity after the controlled explosion occurred.
Colonel Nick Handy from the Royal Navy noted that while safety measures were taken, damage was likely: “We have to be realistic; when that thing goes ‘bang’, there will be damage.” Meanwhile, Councillor Sally Haydon expressed gratitude towards the bomb disposal teams for their efforts in managing this potentially dangerous situation.
A local resident described the detonation as having produced “a big, big bang; you couldn’t miss this one.” The incident highlights ongoing challenges related to unexploded ordnance remnants from World War Two.
