Millbay residents told to pack bags after mystery objects found underground

Locals in Millbay are being advised to pack a bag ahead of a planned exploration of two mystery objects found underground. Plymouth City Council said the unknown items are "most likely" reinforced concrete or bits of train track, but added it is preparing for any eventuality "just in case" either or both items are unexploded devices.

The two items were found last month during early works to develop the site into new Plymouth Community Homes affordable housing.

The council has advised residents in Millbay who will be away from home next Monday, November 18 - when they plan to examine the patch of unused land between Bath Street and Martin Street - to "prepare in advance". PCC said: "Although there is no evacuation, planning ahead can save you from needing to return later in the day, on the small chance a cordon is put in place.

"Should the experts find that one or both items are not simply pieces of metal, they will need to assess the objects and determine how best to dispose of them. To do that, there is a small chance that a cordon would need to be put in place. Details of how large the cordon would be, or how long it would be in place, would be determined by experts’ assessment of the items on the day."

Those leaving their homes on Monday should think about packing a bag to take with them, containing medication, mobility aids, a change of clothes, batteries and phone chargers, and any necessary items for children. The council also recommended planning who they might be able to stay with, if a cordon is in place over night and what steps they need to take for pets.

Councillor Sally Haydon, Plymouth City Council Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: “As I said a few weeks ago, we don’t know what is under the ground in Millbay. Most likely it will be some reinforced concrete.

“However, as we need to be prepared for all possibilities, we are letting people know in advance. If our experts find anything that requires dealing with, they will consider whether a cordon is needed while they make the item safe.

“Whilst not essential, there are some things that people in the Millbay area might want to think about, particularly if they will not be at home during the day.

“For example, maybe have a think about where you would stay if a cordon was in place overnight and popping any spare clothes and medication in your bag before you leave the house in the morning, might make it a bit easier during the day.

“If we do have to have a cordon, people who do not take items with them will be able to return home for emergency items of course. But, on the off chance there is an evacuation, not having to return home will be one less thing to think about during the day.”