What caused the sinkhole in Darwen?

The sinkhole is believed to be caused by the collapse of an unrecorded shaft linked to former sandstone workings.

How deep is the Darwen sinkhole?

The Mining Remediation Authority estimates the sinkhole could be as deep as 100ft (30m).

When will residents return to their homes in Greenfield?

Remediation plans have been submitted to the council, with the aim of allowing displaced families to return home as soon as possible.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / East Lancs Driveway Plunges into 100ft Sinkhole

East Lancs Driveway Plunges into 100ft Sinkhole

22 Dec, 2025

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Summary

A massive sinkhole appeared in Darwen, East Lancashire, in September 2025.
The hole is estimated to be 100ft deep and linked to unrecorded mine shafts.
Homeowners are still in temporary accommodation due to the collapse.

East Lancs Driveway Plunges into 100ft Sinkhole

A substantial sinkhole that emerged on a driveway in East Lancashire in September 2025 is now the subject of permanent remediation plans submitted to the local council. The massive hole, located in Darwen on the Tilia Homes' Taylor's Green development, prompted the evacuation of six homes, with three households still displaced.

The Mining Remediation Authority estimates the sinkhole could reach 100ft (30m) in depth, attributing it to unrecorded former sandstone workings rather than coal mining. Following the collapse on September 21, 2025, which occurred after heavy rainfall, the void was temporarily filled with gravel by the MRA.

Plans now submitted involve drilling boreholes, extensive grouting, and hazardous gas monitoring, culminating in a reinforced concrete shaft cap. Local officials have expressed satisfaction that a resolution plan is moving forward, emphasizing the urgency to allow displaced families to return to their homes as soon as possible.