Works stalled on car-sized sinkhole that closed major Cambridge road

Works to repair a sinkhole “the size of a family car” have been paused due to an issue

Work to repair the Milton Road sinkhole have been paused due to an issue that needs investigating, according to Cambridgeshire County Council. Part of the road has been closed since June 22 after the large sinkhole opened up.

A county council spokesperson has confirmed an “unknown source of water” was discovered during excavations. Works to repair the sinkhole have now been paused for further investigation.

The works to dig out and fill the hole, which is “the size of a family car”, will be delayed until the issue is resolved, the spokesperson said.

Work to repair the Milton Road sinkhole began on Tuesday, July 14, after collaboration with Anglian Water. The repairs involve the council’s contractors pouring concrete into the sinkhole to create a slab, before letting it dry out and harden.

Digging out and filling in the hole will take several more days to complete, allowing again for time to dry out. The area will then be resurfaced.

A Cambridgeshire County Council spokesperson said: “Works to repair the sinkhole, are underway but while excavating, the team discovered a new, unknown source of water, which needs investigating further. Works have paused while this issue is resolved.”

The council is currently unable to confirm the reopening date. Milton Road between Hurst Avenue and the Elizabeth Way roundabout can still be accessed on foot or bike. It will be reopened to motor vehicles once safe.