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Authorities have declared a major incident at a canal in Shropshire following what has been described as a sinkhole, which has caused several boats to become trapped. The affected area, located near Chemistry in Whitchurch, has suffered a collapse that has compromised a section of the waterway, leading to concerns about potential flooding. Images from the scene reveal that two narrowboats have sunk into the sizeable cavity where the water appears to have drained away, while another two boats remain precariously balanced at the edge.
Emergency services, including Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service, are actively addressing the situation, which they have identified as a landslip affecting the canal. Fortunately, West Mercia Police have confirmed that there are no injuries reported. Authorities have urged the public to steer clear of the vicinity and to find alternative routes. Fire crews are also assisting other boaters in nearby parts of the waterway to ensure their safety.
The Canal and River Trust has characterized the problem as a breach in the canal structure, prioritizing the safety of both boaters and local residents. They have stated, “We are carrying out initial investigations into the possible cause of the breach and will provide more details in due course.” Efforts are underway to restore water levels on either side of the breach while offering support to those affected and ensuring the surrounding area remains secure.
Local councillor Andy Hall, who witnessed the event from Whitchurch, recounted that the incident began around 05:00 GMT. He described the precarious situation: “We’ve got two boats at the bottom of the sink hole that have fallen down, and we’ve got two boats that are teetering on the edge that could go in at any time.” He emphasized the response by emergency services to stabilize the boats and noted that no individuals were aboard the vessels that sank. Hall also clarified misinformation circulating online, stating there had been no collapse of any bridge in the area. Meanwhile, resident boat owner Lorraine Barlow shared her experience, detailing unusual currents and noises beneath her moored boat before she evacuated safely
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