A cordon has been put in place as a controlled explosion of a World War II device is underway at the Teesworks site.

Cleveland Police have confirmed a 500-metre cordon has been put in place around Teesworks in Redcar today (August 22).

They said the EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) team will carry out a controlled explosion on a WWII device found on the site over the next few hours.

Read more: TVCA say 'unexploded device' found in Teesworks excavation

South Gare Road will be closed in both directions during this time, remaining shut until the area is safe.

Traffic from Redcar will be stopped from travelling into this area while the incident is dealt with.

A Cleveland Police spokesperson said: "A 500 metre cordon will be in place in Redcar, around the Teesworks site, for the next few hours whilst the EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) carry out a controlled explosion on a WWII device found on the site yesterday, Monday 21st August.

"South Gare Road will be temporarily closed in both directions during this time, with traffic from Redcar prevented from travelling into this area.

"The road will be closed until the area is made safe.

"Thank you for your patience."

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Earlier this morning, the TVCA said: "We were made aware of a discovery of a suspected historical ordinance shell by a contractor carrying out excavation work in an area near to the site of the former Redcar Blast Furnace shortly after 4pm on Monday.

“Cleveland Police were immediately informed and we are working with both the police and Ministry of Defence to provide assistance in line with established protocols.  

"A cordon has been put in place and there is no risk to the wider community.”