Homes have been evacuated in a Co Downs town as the removal of a suspected Second World War bomb could take up to five days.

The “historic ammunition” was found in the Rivenwood area of ​​Newtownards on Thursday, with police still at the scene. It is believed that phase three of the major development is currently under construction.

According to Belfast Live, a notice was issued stating that homes and businesses within 400 metres of the “significant” munitions must be evacuated by 10am today, Sunday 18 August. Around 450 homes are believed to be affected.

Read more: Suspected war bomb discovered during ongoing work in residential area

Read more: Community mourns six-year-old boy

The emergency notice states that Ards and North Down Borough Council is assisting by planning an emergency support centre. This will be set up at the Ards Blair Mayne Leisure Complex on Dairy Hall Lane and those affected will be able to access it from 9am.

Lost and Found Pets North Down has launched an “urgent appeal” for temporary pet rehoming while the alert level continues. A social media post said: “We are aware that all residents of Rivenwood Ards will need to leave their homes for approximately 5 days due to a WWII bomb being found nearby.”

“All residents are moving to an emergency care center where they are not allowed to take their pets. We are looking for anyone who can help take in cats, dogs, rabbits, etc. until residents are back in their homes.”

In a statement released by the PSNI on Sunday afternoon, Johnston McDowell, District Commander for North Down and Ards, said: “I would like to thank all the concerned residents we have spoken to in connection with the ongoing public safety operation in the Rivenwood area of ​​the city.

“Over 400 homes are affected by this action. That is a significant number of homes and we thank residents for their patience and understanding. I would like to point out that unless homeowners or residents have been approached directly by police or have received information on the matter, it is unlikely that they will be affected by the eviction action at this time.

“At this point in time, it is expected that the action will last for several days. A police cordon has been set up and motorists are asked to continue to avoid the area.

“I am aware of the disruption this has caused, but people’s safety is our top priority and we will not take any risks. I would like to thank everyone who may be affected for their patience during this time.

“We will continue to minimise further disruption as the safety of residents and the local community is our priority.”

According to local World War II historians, bombs fell in the Ards area on the night of 15-16 April 1941 when the Luftwaffe attacked Belfast.

For the latest news visit the Belfast Live homepage. here and sign up for our daily newsletter here.