Godstone sinkhole has stabilised, says Surrey County Council

Godstone sinkhole has stabilised, says Surrey County Council

A council spokesperson has confirmed that the massive sinkhole in Surrey village is no longer expanding. The sinkhole first appeared in Godstone after a water main burst, reaching a length of 65ft. A second sinkhole emerged the following day, prompting the evacuation of approximately 30 homes as a precaution.

Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council’s cabinet member for highways, stated that testing will be conducted within the sinkhole to assess the situation. Borehole testing will provide early insights into the underlying issues and guide the necessary temporary stabilization efforts. The road will require a complete reconstruction as a result of the sinkhole.

The cause of the water main break is currently unknown and is under investigation. However, the situation is deemed stable, with no further growth reported. The second sinkhole is speculated to have formed due to water seeping from the initial hole. The council has designated the occurrence as a major incident and is providing support to affected households.

Residents of evacuated properties are being assisted by various councils, such as Tandridge District Council, which is offering aid and information at designated centers. Repairs are expected to last weeks, if not months, with a comprehensive excavation and reconstruction process planned for the affected area. Businesses may be eligible for rate reductions during the repair period

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