Dunnings Bridge Road: Major road closed as bomb squad called in to deal with 'unexploded ordnance'

Dunnings Bridge Road in Bootle was shut down by Merseyside Police on Tuesday after a suspected unexploded bomb was found by construction workers. Footage from the scene shows a large police cordon in place, as morning traffic builds up on surrounding roads.

The Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit was called in to deal with the suspected WWII bomb. It was safely removed and detonated in a controlled explosion on Ainsdale Beach.

The A5036 Dunnings Bridge Road through Bootle was blocked off in both directions between Park Lane and Boundary Road/Netherton Way from around 10.15am. Police announced the road closures had been lifted at 3.50pm.

Although some office workers were asked to leave area, the force confirmed that no schools had been evacuated. Nearby stores and businesses, such as Aldi, remained open as normal.

Merseyside Police said: “We can confirm officers are in Bootle this morning, Tuesday 22 October, following reports of suspected unexploded ordnance. Officers were contacted at 10.15am to reports the item had been found on a construction site on North Atlantic Avenue.

“Dunningsbridge Road is closed in both directions between Park Lane and Boundary Road/Netherton Way. Motorists are advised to avoid the area while the matter is being dealt with.”

Sefton Council said: “We would encourage motorists to seek alternative routes while the closure is in place.”