A controlled explosion is set to take place today after an unexploded World War II ordnance was found at a construction site off Station Road in East Tilbury. The device was discovered on Tuesday, November 5, around 11:30 a.m., leading to the establishment of a 500-meter cordon and the coordination of safety measures by local authorities and Ministry of Defence (MOD) specialists.
Since the discovery, MOD experts have worked around the clock to assess and secure the area. The ordnance’s underground location has added complexity to the operation, but officials have confirmed there is no broader risk to public safety.
The controlled detonation is scheduled between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. today, with nearby roads, including Station Road, Church Road, Coopers Shaw Road, and Fort Road, temporarily closed as a precaution. Additionally, the nearby c2c railway line between Grays and Pitsea will be suspended from 11:30 a.m. to approximately 3 p.m., with short-notice disruptions expected on routes from London to Southend via Ockendon.
Chief Inspector Anthony Atkin, Thurrock district commander, thanked the public for their patience, stating, “All the proper procedures were immediately followed to ensure there was a wide enough cordon in place to protect the public. This will mean a controlled explosion, and this will have a temporary impact on the nearby rail and road network. These measures are a crucial precaution to ensure the safety of the public.”
Residents and travellers are advised to check National Rail Enquiries for updates on rail services and avoid the area during the controlled explosion. Further updates will be provided once the operation is complete.
