'Big Bang' Evacuation

5.08.17pm UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 20th Jun 2005

Residents close to the RFU are to be evacuated for half a day on 10th July for a controlled explosion when the South Stand is demolished. They have protested to the Council, the RFU and Vincent Cable MP about the lack of consultation and information on such matters as liability for the cost of clearing up after dust settlement, accidental damage and the siting of the concrete crushing plant.

Vincent Cable has written to the RFU and the council seeking clarification about the preparations and the residents' unresolved questions about liability, and other uncertainties such as major traffic diversions: "I have no doubt that the RFU and their contractors are approaching this matter with utmost care and there is now a lot of experience of safe, controlled explosions. But residents are nervous. If dozens, perhaps over 100, people have to be evacuated for half a day there must be at least the potential for a lot of flying debris and dense dust clouds. There will be a lot of mess to clear up. Residents want to be absolutely clear who is responsible for any cost. I have also asked what is the position if people refuse to leave their homes or if the event has to be postponed because of wind conditions."