Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Friday 21st March 2025, at 08:00hrs
A major incident has been declared in St Leonards-on-sea, Hastings, after police discovered explosive chemicals inside a property on the A259 Marina, near the route of a planned half marathon.
The discovery, made on Thursday night, has led to the evacuation of nearby homes and the establishment of a 100-metre cordon.
Sussex Police confirmed that the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team determined the substances found pose a “threat to life.”
While authorities have stated they do not believe the incident is terror-related, the proximity to the planned Hastings Half Marathon, scheduled for Sunday, March 23rd, has raised concerns among residents.
“This is a complex but isolated incident, being supported by multiple agencies, resulting in the necessary evacuation of properties immediately surrounding the address for safety reasons,” said Superintendent Michelle Palmer-Harris of Sussex Police.
“The declaration of a major incident allows emergency services and other partner agencies to work together effectively to keep the public safe.”
The incident unfolded after police responded to reports of suspected chemicals at the address.
A 28-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of producing illegal substances and making an explosive substance for an unlawful purpose and remains in custody.
The affected area, located on the A259 Marina between Caves Road and Sussex Road, also extends to properties on West Hill Road.
Officers have conducted door-to-door visits to ensure residents are aware of the situation and have urged those within the cordon to evacuate.
Hastings Borough Council has established a rest center at the Royal Victoria Hotel for displaced residents.
The A259 Marina remains closed between Caves Road and Sussex Road, with traffic being diverted.
The Sussex Resilience Forum, a collaborative body of local organizations, has been activated to manage the emergency response.
Residents have expressed their concerns on social media, with one stating,
“Not terror related but to find explosives close to where the half marathon was planned to take place on Sunday, very worrying.”
Authorities are continuing to provide updates as the situation develops, emphasizing the importance of public safety and urging people to avoid the area.
The status of the planned Hastings Half Marathon is currently unknown.
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