An operation to make safe an area of Co Down following the discovery of a suspected second World War-era bomb could take up to five days, police have said.
The device was found in the Rivenwood area of Newtownards last week.
A large number of homes have been evacuated following the discovery of suspected munitions on Thursday morning just after 11am.
On Monday, the PSNI’s district commander for Ards and North Down, Supt Johnston McDowell, said the sheer size of the bomb meant they had to put in place a 400m (1,312ft) cordon.
He said there is a serious risk of death or serious injury to anyone within that area.
The operation is in the mitigation phase to allow for the examination of the device by the military, and a decision will be made later around next steps, including whether the device will be dealt with at the scene or removed, he added.
Mr McDowell said based on similar operations that have taken place, it is estimated the procedure will take about five days, but could take less or more time
“In excess of 400 homes have been affected by this operation which is a significant number of properties,” he said.
“The operation has now moved into the mitigation phase and work has commenced on establishing protection to nearby properties.
“There is no definite timescale – however, previous operations of this nature have shown that this commonly takes five days before the area is safe to enter.
“A police cordon is in place and road users are advised to continue to avoid the area.”
Mr McDowell said a multi-agency support hub, including the local health service trust, is in place and is liaising closely with residents with vulnerabilities to find more suitable accommodation. – PA