Newtownards alert ends after homes evacuated and buses diverted
Army bomb experts attended the scene in Newtownards on Monday
- Published
A security alert has ended, after houses were evacuated and traffic was diverted in Newtownards, County Down.
Police said "nothing untoward" was found.
Police were made aware of a suspicious vehicle in Brewery Lane shortly after 04:30 BST on Thursday.
Cordons were put in place in the area on Thursday morning with Army bomb experts attending the scene.
A number of roads were closed on Thursday morning, including Brewery Lane, West Street and Regent Street. They have since reopened.
Services to and from the Newtownards bus station were disrupted on Thursday morning. The station has since reopened.
Bus services from the depot resumed at 11:00 BST.
Translink is asking people to allow for delays while services return to normal operation.
Regent Street at the junction of West Street was closed off earlier on Monday
Ards Blair Mayne Wellbeing and Leisure Complex has been providing tea and coffee for those who have had to leave their homes and those who were unable to return to them.
Police asked members of the public and road users to avoid the area
Pensioners out of their homes
Local councillor Steven Irvine said he "totally condemns this behaviour".
"This irresponsible act has caused unnecessary distress to residents, including many pensioners, as well as to local businesses, commuters and public transport services," he said.
"There is absolutely no place for this kind of behaviour in today's society. Our community deserves to feel safe, supported, and respected, and I urge those responsible to reflect on the harm they have caused."
PSNI Insp Youle said police would "like to thank the public for their patience and cooperation".
"Closing roads causes disruption and inconvenience particularly at this busy time of the day but, ultimately, public safety is our priority."