Since the bomb was found last Thursday, over 400 homes in the Rivenwood area of Newtownards have been evacuated.


Police and Army bomb experts have been on site, where they constructed a sand-filled structure around the device while deciding whether to remove it or make it safe on-site.


On Tuesday, police announced that a decision had been made to neutralize the bomb at the scene.


Later that day, residents in the area heard an explosion.


District Commander for Ards and North Down, Superintendent Johnston McDowell, confirmed that the controlled explosion took place at 3:38 p.m.


He also confirmed that the device was an air-dropped German bomb from World War II.


“At approximately 15:38 this afternoon, the render-safe procedure was initiated, and Ammunition Technical Officers (ATO) carried out a controlled explosion of the bomb discovered in the Rivenwood area of Newtownards last Thursday, August 15th,” he said.


“The munition, now confirmed as an air-dropped SC-500 German bomb from World War II, is believed to be around 83 years old but still posed a significant risk to public safety even after all this time.


“This was a highly complex operation that led to the evacuation of a large number of homes within 400 meters of the bomb site. Local police officers worked tirelessly to engage with those affected.


“The disposal team, comprised of members of the Army’s 321 EOD & Search squadron, led the operation with support from the police and other emergency services and partners, all of whom contributed expert knowledge in managing this high-risk situation.”


He added, "I want to sincerely thank all personnel involved, who worked around the clock this week to ensure public safety. The success of this operation is a testament to the skill of our military colleagues.


“While we aim to enable residents to return to normality as soon as possible, updates will be provided on when it is safe for them to do so.


“The operation will continue until it reaches completion. Thank you again for your continued cooperation during this time.”


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