Keyham gardens restored after WW2 bomb removal

Building Plymouth oversaw the project

Gardens in Plymouth damaged during the removal of a World War Two bomb earlier in the year have been restored.

Plymouth City Council said two homes either side of where the bomb was found in Keyham have had new garden designs implemented and walls repaired.

Damage was caused to the properties as the army removed an unexploded 500kg (1,102lb) German bomb from a garden on 20 February.

The council said 18 local companies volunteered their time, materials and equipment in a gesture of support worth £40,000 for residents.

The council said many contractors gave their services free of charge

Councillor Tudor Evans, leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “I have been overwhelmed by the kindness of our construction industry.

"They have stepped in and helped these homeowners and their work has truly been outstanding."

"You are a credit to Plymouth,” he added.

Building Plymouth, a council-led partnership with the construction industry, arranged for the local contractors, consultants and suppliers to work together on the repair project.

'Back in my happy place'

The first phase of the works was completed in June.

In the second phase new decking, a pergola, steps and fencing were installed and broken masonry was replaced.

One of the homeowners, Martyn Hammond, said: “I feel so happy to have my garden back again, considering back in February when this area was like a big sack of sand and now, I’m getting my plants restocked and am back in my happy place to sit and chill again."

Neighbour Lee Elliott added: “We can’t express our gratitude enough to the skilled workforce who have been here to help us.

"We have finally got our little sanctuary back.”