Unexploded WWII bomb: Falmouth evacuation cordon revised to 755 metres ahead of Wednesday operation

The safety cordon around an unexploded Second World War bomb discovered near Falmouth Docks is now expected to expand to 755 metres tomorrow (Wednesday, September 23), following updated assessments from military specialists.

Cornwall Council confirmed the revision on Tuesday evening, reducing the previously anticipated 1,400 metre-cordon but warning that significant disruption and evacuations are still likely.

A 300-metre cordon remains in place overnight.

Residents are being urged to check whether their postcode falls within the wider evacuation zone at www.cornwall.gov.uk/falmouthincident.

Credit: Cornwall Council 

The council stressed that being in an affected postcode does not automatically mean a property will need to be evacuated, with police due to confirm the precise boundary and timings.

Evacuations expected from 9am

Cornwall Council said teams will visit affected homes on Wednesday morning to advise residents, provide instructions, and offer support for anyone who needs help leaving their property. Reception centres are being prepared for those with nowhere else to go.

Cllr Thalia Marrington, portfolio holder for Community Safety & Public Health, said the situation is understandably unsettling: “I know the idea of leaving your home is unsettling. We’re giving people advance notice so you can check whether you may be affected and prepare well in advance. If you are asked to leave, please follow their instructions.”

She added that support will be available for anyone who needs assistance getting somewhere safe.

Police: ‘Public safety is our priority’

Superintendent Ian Thompson, policing commander for West Cornwall, said the expanded cordon is essential to allow bomb disposal experts to safely remove the wartime device.

“It is likely that an expanded, temporary cordon of 1,400 metres will be put in place tomorrow morning,” he said. “The possible evacuation of approximately 1,309 households is essential so these specialists can proceed safely with the next stage of their work.”

He urged residents within the expected zone to leave their homes by 9am if instructed.

“Our priority is public safety and protecting lives… Our military colleagues will not be able to safely remove this device until they are reassured that the area has been evacuated.”

Residents outside the current 300‑metre cordon do not need to leave unless instructed by police or council teams.

Local residents react

One resident told Cornwall’s Rewind Radio reporter Kate Lockett that she had been informed she must leave her home by 9am.

Another resident said her car, parked at the docks, is currently inaccessible due to the area being “locked down”.

Where to find updates

Cornwall Council will publish confirmed arrangements and further updates at cornwall.gov.uk/falmouthincident.