'Unknown objects' found at Plymouth building site

Plymouth City Council said two unknown objects have been found on land between Bath Street and Martin Street

Work has stopped at a Plymouth building site after two unknown metal objects were found underground.

Plymouth City Council said the objects would be inspected on 18 November after they were discovered on land between Bath Street and Martin Street where 136 affordable homes are being built.

The council said although experts have provided reassurance the area was "very safe", work at the site has been halted ahead of the inspection.

Council bosses added they are "prepared for all eventualities" and would consider setting up a cordon around the site if deemed necessary.

The council said the objects could be abandoned equipment, reinforced concrete or pieces of track from an old railway station nearby.

"Should the experts find that one or both items are not simply pieces of metal, they will need to assess the objects and determine how best to dispose of them," a council spokesperson said.

"To do that, there is a small percentage chance that a cordon would need to be put in place."

'Prepared for all possibilities'

Councillor Sally Haydon, cabinet member for community safety, said regular updates would be provided throughout the process.

"All we know is that there are two metal objects and our experts have told us that there is a very strong likelihood that they are probably nothing to worry about," she said.

"However, we do need to be prepared for all possibilities.

"So, we are letting people know in advance so when our experts do further exploratory works – if they find anything ominous they we will need to move quickly."

Devon and Cornwall Police said it was working alongside the council on the matter.

Temporary Ch Supt Scott Bradley, Plymouth's police commander, said: "We have been preparing for this investigative work with the council and have a clear plan to deal with any eventuality once more is known as to what the objects are."