Police say a suspicious device found at a flat in St Albans yesterday did not pose any risk following an investigation.
Hertfordshire Constabulary taped off a section of the city yesterday evening and evacuated residents from Approach Road.
Residents in Approach Road, pictured, were evacuated
Officers had initially been called to an address in Approach Road in relation to an unconnected matter but while they were there, they discovered what they deemed to be a suspicious item.
As a result, a decision was made to call in the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team to check the device and carry out a controlled explosion if necessary.
At around 10pm last night, police asked neighbours to leave their homes and a 100m cordon was set up - London Road was closed to traffic between Grosvenor Road and Alma Road and officers guarded various cordons.
No access through London Road
Shortly after midnight, there was the sound of a bang - believed to be a controlled explosion which police say was carried out in a safe location nearby as a precaution.
Officers told those gathered at the cordon in Approach Road to move as far away as possible.
Video: Police warn the public to move away from Approach Road moments before an explosion can be heard
This afternoon, police confirmed the suspicious device was not viable.
Chief Superintendent Geoff Camp said: "We take all incidents of this nature seriously and will always take appropriate precautions to ensure the safety of members of the public and officers.
"It transpired there was no risk to them, but of course, we could not be certain of this until EOD had completed their work.
"I would like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding throughout, particularly to local residents whose safety was paramount."
The address in Approach Road remained guarded by police this morning as enquiries continued
Residents who had been told to leave their homes were given alternative accommodation while the area was made safe, according to police.
They have now been allowed to return to their homes.
The police force added that enquiries are continuing.
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