A FAKE bomb has been partially exploded after being found at Colchester's tip and recycling centre.
Colchester Recycling Centre has reopened after a briefcase designed to look like a bomb was found in a skip at the site by staff.
The battery pack was designed to look like a dummy bomb and Essex Police has launched an investigation into whether it was left there to deliberately cause a panic.
Police put up a 200m cordon at 1pm today following the discovery.
The bomb disposal team arrived at the site, off Shrub End Road, and carried out a controlled explosion at around 4.30pm.
The team was looking at components of the package to find out exactly what they are.
A robot was initially sent into the site to try and get more information and CCTV cameras are also being examined to try and find out who may have left the package.
The nearest homes were outside the cordon.
However, Westlands Park was closed along with the recycling centre.
Essex County Council, Veolia, Essex Hand Car Wash, A1 Autos, Big Box Self Storage and Mankin Models were all told to leave their businesses and all staff and visitors were told to remain outside the cordon while the package was investigated further.
SEE TOMORROW'S GAZETTE FOR THE FULL STORY.
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