The road was closed for several hours this morning after army technical officers examined the small metal object. Police later said it was a viable device before removing it and reopening the road.
“Somebody could have been seriously injured or killed had this pipe bomb exploded, particularly as it was placed in the middle of a residential area and close to a busy shopping centre,” said Councillor McAllister.
“People in North Belfast do not want to see this sort of incident taking place and are opposed to those behind it, who do nothing but cause disruption with their actions.
“I urge anyone with information about those behind this device to contact police immediately.”