Gorleston Road to Close for Five-Day Bomb Survey

Riverside Road in Gorleston is scheduled for a five-day closure starting today to facilitate a bomb survey. Norfolk County Council announced that the road will remain inaccessible until Friday, with alternative routes provided. Gorleston, like its neighboring town Great Yarmouth, experienced extensive bombing during World War Two. A notable incident occurred in February 2023 when an unexploded ordnance, found approximately 1,640ft (500m) from the current closure site, unexpectedly exploded while being rendered safe. This bomb survey constitutes preliminary work for the construction of a new retaining wall, designed to safeguard the road against erosion and potential flooding. A statement from the council confirmed: “The survey will be carried out by Brimstone, a government-approved contractor, who will be on-site from 08:00 GMT to 16:00 throughout the week.” The statement added that “If any explosives are found, appropriate safety measures will be implemented. Local businesses and residents will be kept informed.” Despite acknowledging that “the likelihood of finding anything is very low,” Norfolk County Council affirmed its commitment to “ensure the utmost care and diligence whilst conducting this operation.” Historical records indicate that various areas of Norfolk sustained heavy bombing during WW2, leading to beliefs that hundreds of unexploded devices still lie on the seabed offshore. The council specified that the closure of Riverside Road would affect a 980ft (300m) stretch south of its intersection with Ferry Hill. Construction of the 490-ft (150-m) sea wall is anticipated to commence in the coming year.