On Tuesday, February 17, three unexploded aerial bombs from World War II were safely detonated at the former Soesterberg Air Base. The discovery was made during soil research in the area where the Province of Utrecht is working on the development of a nature reserve and a new residential neighborhood.
During the war years, the air base was a target of heavy bombings. As a result, explosives may still be present in the soil. On behalf of the Ministry of Defence, the Government Real Estate Agency is conducting extensive research. Specialists use advanced detection equipment to search for ammunition remnants and other suspicious objects in the ground.
Safe clearance
During this research, three aerial bombs were discovered. They were covered with a thick layer of sand and detonated remotely according to strict safety protocols.
Residents were informed in advance about the work.
Important step towards residential area
According to Evert-Jan Roelofsen, director of Hart van de Heuvelrug, detecting and clearing explosives is a necessary step in area development: “Once the soil is declared safe, we can proceed. Todays detonation marks the next phase in the realization of a future-proof residential area and the surrounding nature reserve.”
Watch the video on YouTube external link showing how the three aerial bombs from World War II were detonated.
For press information:
bernadet.naber@provincie-utrecht.nl
0634543242