MORE than 300 homes are expected to be evacuated to allow specialists to dispose of an unexploded WWII bomb safely on Wednesday morning (September 23).

Cornwall Council was due to expand the cordon to 1,400 metres, with the possible evacuation of up to 1,300 homes but has been revised to 755 metres following final expert advice, which will affect an estimated 339 homes.

GWR has suspended train services between Falmouth Town and Falmouth Docks from 8.45am. It is expected that disruption will continue until the end of the day.

The council is preparing reception centres for anyone who has nowhere else to spend the day and providing support for people who need help leaving their homes.

Cllr Thalia Marrington, portfolio holder for community safety and public health, said: “While we are of course pleased that the cordon has been reduced in size following a new assessment by army disposal experts, we still need people living within the cordon to follow the police guidance and evacuate the area on Wednesday morning.

“Our priority as always is resident safety, and I’d like to thank the emergency services and other partner agencies for putting plans together at such short notice in difficult circumstances.”

Superintendent Ian Thompson, policing Commander for West Cornwall, said: “Based on the latest expert analysis by military specialists, we are now looking at the cordon parameters being reduced to approximately 755 metres.

“This area incorporates an estimated 339 households which will be evacuated. If you live within the cordon area, you are strongly urged to leave your home by 9am tomorrow.

“This is in order for the unexploded wartime bomb near Falmouth Docks to be dealt with safely.

“The size of the cordon is determined by advice from military bomb disposal experts. An evacuation of this area is essential so these specialists can proceed safely with the next stage of their work.

“Police, with support from our partner agencies, will be in the area to speak directly with affected residents and ensure they have the support they need.

“Our priority is public safety and protecting lives and it is important to note that our military colleagues will not be able to safely remove this device until they are reassured that the area has been evacuated.

“We are very grateful for the co-operation of residents at what we appreciate is a difficult and concerning time.

“All agencies are working together to do everything they can to minimise any ongoing disruption.”