Residents near Falmouth Docks are being advised that they may need to evacuate tomorrow, Wednesday 23 September, as the safety cordon around unexploded WWII ordnance is expected to expand from 300 metres to 1,400 metres.
The cordon remains at 300m overnight but is expected to expand in order to allow specialists to dispose of the ordnance safely.
Those living in the area are asked to check cornwall.gov.uk/falmouthincident to see whether their postcode is affected by the wider evacuation plans.
Being in one of those postcodes does not necessarily mean your property will be included - the precise evacuation area and timing will be confirmed by police.
Teams will visit affected properties to tell people what they need to do and provide information about where to go.
Cornwall 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.
Portfolio holder for Community Safety & Public Health, Cllr Thalia Marrington, said: “I know the idea of leaving your home is unsettling. We’re giving people advance notice so you can check whether you may be affected and prepare well in advance.
“If you are asked you to leave, please follow their instructions. If you need help getting somewhere safe, tell the team visiting your home. We are preparing reception centres and support for people who need them, and we will keep you updated as the plans are confirmed.”
Superintendent Ian Thompson, policing Commander for West Cornwall, said: “It is likely that an expanded, temporary cordon of 1,400 metres will be put in place tomorrow morning (Wednesday 23 September) in order for the unexploded wartime bomb near Falmouth Docks to be removed.
“The potential increase of the cordon follows advice from military bomb disposal experts and the possible evacuation of approximately 1,309 households is essential so these specialists can proceed safely with the next stage of their work.
“If the cordon is extended and you live within this area, you are strongly urged to leave your home by 9am on Wednesday 23 September.
“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.
“We will aim to keep residents informed throughout the operation via the Cornwall Council website, where further help and advice is available.
If you are outside the current cordon, you do not need to leave because of this announcement. Please follow any instructions given to you by police or the teams visiting your property.
We will publish confirmed arrangements and further updates at cornwall.gov.uk/falmouthincident
Anyone within the current 300 metre cordon should continue to follow police instructions.
Published on September 22, 2026