Llanelli chemical plant evacuated as experts called to clear bomb
ARMY bomb disposal experts have detonated a Second World War bomb uncovered at a Llanelli chemical plant.
The explosive, which was found at the site of Huntsman Chemical Company in Bynea during a routine excavation, prompted an immediate evacuation and closure of the site.
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The scene at Huntsman Chemical Plant in Bynea where an unexploded Second World War bomb has been found
The bomb was destroyed in a controlled explosion yesterday afternoon.
Grant Wood, environmental health and safety manager at the plant said: "During a routine maintenance excavation a war-time bomb was discovered.
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"The plant was shut down immediately and the bomb was moved to a safe location on site.
"It was a surprise to discover the bomb and we informed the police immediately after. There has been no risk to the public at any time."
Following the discovery, police officers knocked on local residents' doors to advise them to leave their windows open ahead of the imminent explosion.
John Edwards, of Lower Trostre Road, who drove past the scene yesterday said: "The area was plastered with police cars.
"The police helicopter was up and there was a bomb disposal van outside.
"They have made all company vans park outside and the security patrolling are not letting anybody into the site."
Dyfed-Powys Police led the multi-agency response following the discovery of the device at the Bynea plant — which is a specialist producer of amines, used in pharmaceuticals, coatings, resins, gas treating and for the prevention of corrosion — late on Wednesday.
Chief Inspector Andy Twigger said the bomb had been uncovered by workmen at the site.
He said: "Due to failing light the scene was secured by police overnight.
"Army bomb disposal experts returned to the scene yesterday morning in order to make the item safe."
Chief Inspector Richard Lewis said the munition was initially moved a safe distance away from any nearby risks and assessed by experts from the Royal Air Force.
He said: "There was no need to carry out any evacuation of the immediate area, but road closures were put in place as a safety precaution."
He added: "All the agencies involved would like to thank local residents and businesses for the cooperation during this operation."
robert.dalling@swwmedia.co.uk
01554 745306
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