The police cordon in place following a bomb scare in Stevenage town centre this morning has been partially lifted and some staff are now being allowed back into businesses.
Bomb disposal experts have been on the scene this morning, and a small explosion was heard at about 11.15am.
Comet reporter Martin Elvery, who is at the scene, said: “Staff now being allowed back in to most of the shops. The cordon at Westgate Shopping Centre has now been lifted, but it’s still in place near Poundland.”
Martin has been speaking to people in the town and said: “Most people saying they are glad cordon was in place, better to be safe than sorry – despite the inconvenience caused.”
The Comet received reports at about 9.30am that a device in the form of a polystyrene coffee cup with microchips attached had been found by a member of Stevenage Borough Council staff near the store.
A number of shops and businesses were then evacuated while the police operation was carried out.
Road closures remain in place in St George’s Way at the junctions with Six Hills Way and Fairlands Way, so drivers are advised to avoid the area.
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