Steel Plate and Reinforced Concrete Discovered at Plymouth Construction Site

Plymouth City Council (PCC) has confirmed the discovery of a substantial steel plate and reinforced concrete at a construction site in Plymouth. Previously, the council had advised residents to pack an overnight bag in anticipation of an inspection of two unidentified items located at the site, situated between Bath Street and Martin Street in the Millbay district, where 136 affordable residences are under construction. After an assessment conducted on Monday, specialists determined that the first location presented “nothing untoward,” according to the council. The council stated: “The work to uncover the second site is now complete. They are now refilling the holes and the operation is over.” PCC had previously indicated that the objects, discovered in 2023, were probably either reinforced concrete or sections of railway track. Nevertheless, the council noted that it still needed to prepare “for all eventualities.” Prior to the commencement of the work, local resident Ian Creasy commented that it would be “rather senseless to not have some concern.” Greg Clarke, a guitar tutor whose studio is “extremely close” to the site, expressed that the situation was “all a bit concerning.” The self-employed instructor added, “It will be a shame if I have to cancel my lessons.” Antony Spencer, another Plymouth resident, stated he was “mildly concerned.” He remarked, “As far as I’m aware, the cordon is only just around the site at the moment.” He further added, “It hasn’t gone any further than that but that depends on what they find.” The Box museum in Plymouth houses its “bomb book,” which documents the locations and times various World War Two devices impacted the city. According to media archivist Stacey Anderson, Bath Street and Martin Street are listed within this record. Additionally, the museum possesses a black and white photograph from 1941 depicting damage to the railway embankment situated close to Bath Street. On Thursday, the council announced that an evacuation was not scheduled, but residents were advised to be ready due to a “small chance” that a cordon could be requested. Millbay Academy declared on Friday that it would close for the day as a precautionary measure.