Sussex: explosive chemicals found in a property in St Leonards

A major incident has been declared in Sussex after explosive chemicals were found in a property in St Leonards, near Hastings. Emergency services have intervened and placed a 100-metre cordon around the property on the A259 Marina. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal team has confirmed the chemicals are explosive and pose a threat to public safety. Police officers have visited all properties in the area and spoken to residents, inviting them to leave if living within the defined cordon. Superintendent Michelle Palmer-Harris said this is a complex incident, requiring the support of multiple agencies and the evacuation of addresses near the property for safety reasons. She thanked the affected residents and the St Leonards community for their patience and support. A rest centre for displaced residents has been set up at a local hotel.
Meanwhile, a 28-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of producing illegal substances and manufacturing explosives for unlawful purposes. He remains in custody at the time.