Activity: Footpath closures
What is a UXO?
UXO is a term used to describe explosive devices that have been prepared for use in an armed conflict.
A device may have been fired, dropped or launched and failed to explode – in the industry this is called ‘Unexploded Ordnance’ or more commonly referred to as a ‘UXO’.
As the area surrounding the main site of Sizewell C has previously been used in military training exercises, practice bombing ranges can contain UXOs beneath the ground.
We have previously completed UXO surveys across the site, however, unexpected UXO discoveries are not uncommon when they have been buried for a number of years.
What happens when we find a UXO?
When potentially explosive items are found, an exclusion zone is put in place and the UXOs are destroyed in a controlled explosion by qualified personnel.
Why is this information important?
Safety is our absolute priority. When we put an exclusion cordon in place, this may mean that we will need to close permissive paths for public safety. We endeavour to reopen these as swiftly as possible, but please be advised that your route may be redirected or take longer than usual while UXOs are removed.
If you have any questions about the permissive paths or UXOs, please do contact us.