A major police operation unfolded in Blackpool on New Year's Eve after officers discovered what they described as explosive material at a residential address. The discovery led to the arrest of a teenage boy and the precautionary evacuation of several nearby properties.
Police Operation and Arrest Details
Lancashire Constabulary confirmed that a 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act. The arrest followed a police visit to a property on Gloucester Avenue at approximately 11:30am on Wednesday, 31st December. Upon arrival, officers found what they termed "a quantity of items of concern," prompting an immediate and significant emergency response.
Emergency Services Response
The situation required a multi-agency effort to ensure public safety. Specialist bomb disposal units were swiftly deployed to the scene to assess the hazardous items. Officers were supported by colleagues from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service and the North West Ambulance Service throughout the operation.
Footage from Gloucester Avenue, located roughly a mile from the famous Blackpool promenade, showed a heavy concentration of police vehicles and personnel. The emergency presence was expected to remain in place throughout the evening of New Year's Eve as work continued to make the area safe.
Community Impact and Police Reassurance
Chief Inspector Martin Wyatt acknowledged the disruption and concern caused to local residents. He stated that the police had a significant presence in the area and urged the public to avoid Gloucester Avenue if possible.
"We appreciate that this will be disruptive and concerning for the local community," said Ch Insp Wyatt. "But we want to reassure all residents we are working extremely hard with all our partners to make the address safe and bring this matter to as swift a conclusion as we can."
The police thanked evacuated residents for their support and cooperation during the ongoing operation, which cast a shadow over New Year's Eve celebrations in the affected part of the seaside town.
