The incident caused havoc for scores of evacuated residentsvideoHeadlineEmergency services in South Liberty Lane

A 21-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of making an explosive after an incident that caused havoc yesterday, Tuesday, July 22.

Dozens of homes had to be evacuated in the Ashton Vale area of south Bristol amid fears that highly explosive materials were present at a property.

Officers were called to a house in South Liberty Lane at around 5.55pm following a concerns that a person may have had access to explosive items.

The man was arrested at 7.10pm on suspicion of making an explosive and for being in possession of cannabis.

Early investigative enquiries have indicated that the item found was “not a viable explosive”, meaning whatever may have been produced would have have the capacity to cause significant damage.

Police closed South Liberty Lane in Ashton Vale and dozens of homes were evacuatedPolice closed South Liberty Lane in Ashton Vale and dozens of homes were evacuated(Image: BristolLive )

It is estimated that around 200 people have had to leave their homes in Risdale Road, Swiss Road and Swiss Drive.

Many spent much of the night at the Ashton Vale Community Centre as they waited anxiously for news of when they could return to their homes.

A major incident was declared last night. By 7am this morning, Wednesday, July 23, it was no longer being treated as such by Avon and Somerset Police.

Superintendent Stephanie McKenna, from the Bristol South Neighbourhood Policing, said: “I would like to recognise the patience and understanding of the local community while we dealt with this incident.

“I know this was likely a distressing time for those involved and we urge anyone with any concerns to contact their local Neighbourhood Policing Team.

“I am aware there were concerns raised by residents about the timeliness of updates provided by officers on the ground.

“I appreciate this must have been frustrating and worrying and would like to reassure that we strive to provide up-to-date, accurate information as it becomes available.

“It is always our priority to protect and preserve life and officers worked with colleagues from other emergency services to bring the incident to a safe conclusion.

Emergency services personnel at South Liberty Lane, Ashton ValeEmergency services personnel at South Liberty Lane, Ashton Vale(Image: Kineta Hill)

“We continue to engage with the local community and local authority as we progress our investigation.”

A 100m cordon was put into place as a precaution last night, resulting in 63 properties on South Liberty Lane, Risdale Road and Swiss Lane being evacuated.

Residents were directed to Ashton Vale Community Centre if they needed support.

Residents were later able to return to their properties at around 3am.

The force said it remains in the area today conducting forensic enquiries and additional searches, including utilising our dog unit, and a full police investigation has been opened.