Irvine Beach (Ayrshire) has been the scene of several recent UXO finds. MOD bomb squads have carried out a number of controlled explosions over the past few months.  

The identity of each device has not been reported, however they are unlikely to be German bombs. 

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Irvine beach
British troops during a training exercise on irvine beach

Amphibious warfare training took place at Irvine Beach during WW2. Immediately east of the beach, the Royal Navy’s HMS Dundonald combined operations base was home to many different military units. The allied Armies based in England during WWII wanted to create training exercises that closely simulated the real thing. As such, they often used live ammunition during military exercises at coastal training areas. Inevitably some items failed to function, creating the legacy of unexploded ammunition we see today.

Are all beaches at greater risk of UXO contamination?

The unique combination of sea action and historic military defence does indicate that, generally speaking, coastlines can concentrate UXO. Naval weapons such as mines and shells frequently wash up on shores around the world. And this is in addition to land-based military activity resulting in coastal UXO contamination.

If your ground works are taking place in a coastal location, Brimstone would always recommend carrying out a Stage Detailed UXO Risk Assessment prior to breaking ground.