Home / Disasters and Accidents / Lancashire Sinkhole: Work Begins on 100ft Chasm
Lancashire Sinkhole: Work Begins on 100ft Chasm
23 Feb
Summary
- Work to fill a 100ft deep sinkhole in Darwen has commenced.
- Three households remain displaced in temporary rented accommodation.
- The sinkhole is linked to former sandstone workings, not coal mining.
Remediation efforts are commencing on a substantial sinkhole that emerged on September 21st in Darwen, east Lancashire. The hole, measured at approximately 100ft deep, appeared on the Tilia Homes' Taylor's Green development.
Initially, six homes were evacuated due to the incident. As of now, three households continue to reside in temporary rented accommodation while repairs are organized. Planning permission has been granted for the necessary works, which will involve drilling, filling, grouting, and monitoring.
The Mining Remediation Authority has investigated the sinkhole's origins, suggesting a connection to former sandstone workings rather than coal mining activities. These crucial repair operations necessitate the creation of a temporary access road.
Discussions regarding the incident included concerns about the initial housing development approval given the area's history of unmapped mines. However, the council defended the planning process, and Tilia Homes has been commended for its response.
