Second Sinkhole Opens in Surrey Village, Residents Still Unable to Return

Two sinkholes appeared in a Surrey village, leading to a major incident declaration. Thirty homes got evacuated from the affected area. The first sinkhole opened on Monday in Godstone, swallowing much of the road. That hole measured 19 meters long and 3 meters wide. Residents still couldn’t return home by Wednesday.

Carl Bussey spoke about the site. He said experts assessed the risk. Experts also figured out how to fix it. The council knew nothing of another hole at first, but photos then showed a car near a new sinkhole with its wheels close to the broken road.

Bussey stated utilities isolated supplies when needed. Water and power worked for most places, only the evacuated homes lacked those services. Permanent repairs will start when the site is safe. Tandridge District Council helped the affected residents.

The road is still closed, and a group will decide how long repairs will take. Tandridge Council told people to stay away. The road from the A25 into Godstone closed. The council thinks sandpits used to exist there. Building control checked nearby homes for safety.

Simon Marnus lives nearby. He thinks more traffic caused the sinkhole. He noted the road had been sinking for years. Janet Kay lives in the village, too, and she feels bad for shop owners and homeowners.

Shane Fry owns a local car repair shop. The road closure hurts his business. Customers wait to see if things improve. He must meet customers down the road. He needs to pay his staff and bills still.

Claire Coutinho thanked the engineers. They restored water after the sinkhole issue. She thanked everyone for supporting each other. She will ensure support for those evacuated. She seeks a repair timeline from the council.

SES Water said the restored water might look bad but is safe. The company will compensate some customers. Sediment in the pipes might cause discoloration. The water’s taste or smell could also change briefly.