A large sinkhole in Godstone, Surrey, led to street closure and evacuations after a water pipe burst and cracks appeared.
Residents returned home Monday night and saw the hole in the road. The sinkhole cracked the street’s surface, and people were told to steer clear. The gap was very large and unsafe, measuring 62 feet across.
A water pipe burst beforehand, causing some homes to lose their water supply. Nicola and Damian Styles live nearby and had to leave their house. Officials told them to evacuate quickly that night.
Nicola stated it was a shock to them. She said her sister lives in Purley, and they drove there in the middle of the night. Damian said they grabbed essentials right away, taking clothes, laptops, and leaving fast.
They didn’t know when they could return. The couple came back for a few items but are now staying at their home. Nicola said communication was poor and hopes for a help desk for residents.
Carl Bussey works for Surrey County Council. He claims they work with many groups, including services and companies. They aim to protect the public and homes, investigating to fix the area safely. They ask people to avoid the location for now.
He said updates will be given later. Around 30 homes are within the safety zone, and the district council helps residents locate housing. Road closures are also in place. A forum will meet often to solve things fast and keep everyone safe during it.