Removal of Plymouth device delayed by "much larger" WW2 bomb in Exmouth
Hundreds of people remain evacuated from their homes after the WW2 ordnance was dredged from the water near Exmouth Harbour yesterday
Last updated 15th Jan 2026
Authorities say an unexploded WW2 ordnance found in Exmouth is "much larger" than a second historic device discovered at a construction site in Plymouth.
The two wartime bombs were both discovered yesterday (14/01).
Plymouth City Council say work to make the device on Martin Street in Millbay safe is on hold until Royal Navy bomb disposal experts receive specialist X-ray equipment which also needs to be used on the unexploded device in Exmouth.
The council say they hope the equipment will arrive in Plymouth today.
Residents from evacuated homes nearby on Millbay Road were allowed to return home on Wednesday evening after police made further safety checks.
There may be a short evacuation of a small number of properties today, although specific details will only be confirmed following an additional assessment of the device.
Millbay Academy remains closed today, with students being taught remotely.
Meanwhile, in Exmouth a 400m Cordon remains in place, with thousands of people still evacuated from their homes after the unexploded WW2 device was declared a 'major incident.'
Locals we spoke to called it all 'a bit of a shock', and 'crazy' that the unexploded bomb has been there for so long without being discovered.
An emergency rest centre remains in place at the local leisure centre.
In a statement issued at 11:30am East Devon District Council said:
"Emergency services continue to respond to the discovery of a significant unexploded German Second World War device at Exmouth Marina, which was found yesterday during routine dredging operations.
"Specialist military teams are currently on site assessing the device and determining the safest method for disposal. Public safety remains the priority.
"A 400m safety cordon remains in place, and residents within the affected area are still unable to return to their homes at this time.
"Approximately 2,000 homes continue to be impacted.
"Emergency services, local councils and other public service partners are working closely together to manage the incident and ensure the safety of the community while plans for safe disposal progress.
"Exmouth beach is closed today as a precaution."
In an update this afternoon Police said its unclear when people who live in the evacuation zone in Exmouth will be able to return home.