Mortar bomb dug up at Sussex coast building site

A piece of unexploded ordnance (UXO) was recently discovered at a building site on the Sussex coast. The item, identified as a mortar bomb from WWII, prompted a swift response from Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) experts. The bomb was safely dealt with by the Royal Army, who disposed of the ordnance by detonating it on the beach using plastic explosives.

This incident highlights the ongoing risks posed by unexploded ordnance, particularly in coastal areas with historical military significance.

What was a WWII mortar bomb doing on a Sussex building site?

The discovery of the mortar bomb at this Sussex construction site isn’t an isolated event. During the early years of WWII, Littlehampton, a town located along the Sussex coastline, was transformed into a garrison town in response to the threat of German invasion. In preparation, the War Office closed off public access to the beaches and fortified the area with obstacles, minefields, and coastal defences.

During this time, the British Army requisitioned buildings and established gun and mortar positions, with the aim of defending the area from potential attacks. Many of the town’s residents were evacuated, and Littlehampton became a largely deserted area for the duration of the war.

As a result of these military activities, large quantities of ammunition, including mortar bombs and other explosives, were buried in coastal locations for safekeeping or disposal. After the war, with the threat of invasion having passed, many of these ammunition caches were abandoned and forgotten about, leaving behind a hidden legacy of wartime ordnance. This makes discoveries like the one on the Sussex building site more common than people might realize.

Why are UXO items still being found today?

While it may seem surprising to encounter WWII-era explosives in modern times, the discovery of UXO is far from unusual, particularly in areas with military history. Coastal regions, in particular, were often used as sites for ammunition storage, making them prone to finding unexploded bombs, shells, and mortars long after the war ended.

Despite the passage of time, these munitions remain hazardous due to their long-lasting stability. The metal casings can still retain explosive material, and some munitions may still be capable of detonation, especially when disturbed by construction or excavation activities.

As a result, the presence of UXO poses a real threat to public safety and must be managed carefully to avoid accidents. It is not uncommon for construction and development projects to uncover these buried relics, and specialised teams are required to handle their safe disposal.

Safe disposal of UXO in coastal areas

When UXO is found on beaches or coastal construction sites, the safest and most efficient method of disposal is typically detonation in shallow water or on-site. This method helps to contain the blast and minimises the risk to surrounding areas.

In the case of the mortar bomb found on the Sussex coast, the military team used controlled plastic explosives to safely detonate the item on the beach. This process ensures that any potentially dangerous ordnance is neutralised quickly and without harm to nearby structures or people.

While this is one example of a safe and successful UXO disposal, every situation is unique and requires careful planning to ensure public safety and minimise environmental impact.

Understanding and managing UXO risks on your site

While most construction sites in the UK are classified as low risk in terms of UXO, incidents like this remind us that unexploded ordnance can still be discovered unexpectedly. Construction companies, developers, and landowners should remain vigilant and prepared to manage the risks posed by UXO, particularly on sites with historical military significance.

One of the most cost-effective and efficient ways to assess and mitigate UXO risks is through a Preliminary UXO Risk Assessment. At Brimstone UXO, we offer a fast turnaround of just 24 to 48- hours for these assessments, allowing you to discount UXO risks or take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of your team and the success of your project.

A Preliminary UXO Risk Assessment can help identify the presence of UXO on your site, assess the potential risks, and recommend appropriate action. Whether you are working on a construction project near a historic military site or simply need to ensure safety on your land, Brimstone UXO is here to help.

Why choose Brimstone UXO for your risk management needs?

Brimstone UXO offers expert services in UXO risk management, including site assessments, expert advice, and safe disposal of unexploded ordnance. We are committed to protecting your project and the people involved by providing professional UXO mitigation services that ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with all necessary regulations.

Our team of experienced professionals is ready to help you manage UXO risks on your site, no matter the complexity or scale of your project. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to arrange a risk assessment for your site.

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