How large is the underground void discovered at Hunstanton's promenade?

The void measures 3.5m deep and 14m wide in places.

What section of Hunstanton's promenade is currently closed?

A 140m section between the Waterside Bar and Oasis leisure centre, plus part of the beach, is closed.

What are the challenges for repairing the Hunstanton promenade?

High tides and bad weather are making repairs difficult, and the promenade's age and materials are also factors.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Norfolk Beach Sinkhole Reveals Massive Underground Void

Norfolk Beach Sinkhole Reveals Massive Underground Void

13 Feb

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Summary

A small sinkhole has exposed a void 3.5m deep and 14m wide.
A 140m section of Hunstanton's promenade is closed due to the void.
Historic promenade materials from the 1920s are eroding.

Norfolk Beach Sinkhole Reveals Massive Underground Void

Investigations have revealed a significant void beneath a small sinkhole on Hunstanton's beach promenade in Norfolk. Ground penetrating radar surveys indicated the void measures 3.5m (11.4ft) deep and up to 14m (45.9ft) wide in places. As a result, a 140m (1450ft) stretch of the walkway between the Waterside Bar and Oasis leisure centre, along with part of the beach, has been closed off by the Borough Council of King's Lynn and West Norfolk.

The council is currently formulating a repair plan for the promenade, which dates back to the 1920s. Historically, materials used in its construction, including bottles and pottery, have been exposed by sea erosion. The promenade was previously renewed in 1954 after flooding, but current sea levels are exposing its footings and causing further damage.