WATCH: Army Destroys 'One Of Largest' Unexploded WWII Bombs

Video courtesy of South West News Service (SWNS).

Bomb disposal experts have carried out a controlled explosion on one of the largest unexploded World War II devices found on British soil.

The bomb was discovered by construction staff near Birmingham on Monday morning. It's been identified as a German shell weighing up to 500lbs.

Dozens of people spent the night in a rest centre as hundreds of nearby homes were evacuated. An Army bomb disposal expert said:

"This was the largest disposal of a device in situ in recent history and was particularly challenging due to its badly corroded state and the amount of sensitive infrastructure in the area... We are pleased this has gone well and that the public can now return to their homes."

British Army experts covered the bomb with 250 tonnes of sand before carrying out the controlled explosion.

Police closed the A38 Aston Expressway and nearby homes and businesses within a 500-metre cordon were evacuated after the alarm was raised.

The Red Cross said around 80 people were being cared for overnight by volunteers.

Birmingham Police Commander Chris Johnson, said:

"An initial assessment from Army bomb disposal suggests this is a large explosive device. That's why an extensive cordon has been put in place for public safety."

"We don't take decisions like this lightly but public safety has to be our number one priority."

He added: "Hundreds of homes have been evacuated and we are working with our partners to provide emergency accommodation."

Those travelling in Birmingham during rush hour were advised by West Midlands Ambulance Service to allow extra time to get to work.

Pictures courtesy of West Midlands Ambulance Service and the MoD.