Residents of around 400 properties in Newtownards have been asked to leave after a piece of munition from World War II was discovered.
Police and bomb disposal experts remain at the scene for a third day, after the suspected bomb was found during construction work at a new build development in the Rivenwood area of Newtownards.
PSNI North Down and Ards District Commander Superintendent Johnston McDowell confirmed that residents from more than 400 properties are being asked to move out temporarily.
He thanked residents for “their patience and understanding”.
Supt McDowell said it was likely the security operation would last for several days more.
“I would like to state that if home owners or residents have not been spoken to directly by police, or received information in relation to this matter, it’s unlikely that they will be impacted by the clearance operation at this time.
“It is anticipated at this stage that the operation will continue for a number of days. A police cordon is in place and motorists are advised to continue to avoid the area.
“I appreciate the disruption that this has caused, however keeping people safe is paramount, and we will not take any risks. I want to thank those who may be affected for their patience at this time.
“We will continue to minimise any further disruption, as our priority is to keep residents and the local community safe.”
UUP Councillor Pete Wray said hundreds of residents had been advised to vacate their homes.
“A significant number of properties have been advised to leave by 10am this morning,” he said.
“I understand police are vacating a perimeter of 400m around the site, meaning around 450 properties will be impacted.
“As far as I am aware there is no immediate danger, obviously the munition has been there for some time, but it is important to take some precautions as officers secure and remove the device.”
He added that due to to the complex nature of the operation it is expected to take five days.
“I understand this is an upheaval for many of the residents especially those with children, pets or relatives with complex needs. We hope the situation will be dealt with shortly, but making the bomb safe could take five days or longer.
“A refuge centre has been set up at the Ards Blair Mayne leisure centre for those impacted.”
Ammunition Technical Officers have been at the scene since the alarm was raised on Friday morning.
