Second Sinkhole Hits Godstone Street – Major Incident Declared
A second sinkhole has erupted in Godstone, Surrey, sparking a major incident and forcing dozens of families from their homes. The new crater appeared close to the enormous 65-foot-wide hole that opened on Monday night on Godstone High Street.
Emergency crews rushed back to the scene amid fears that exposed underground gas and water pipes could trigger explosions or further collapses.
30 Homes Evacuated as Utilities Cut Off
At least 30 properties have been evacuated and Godstone High Street remains shut while engineers battle to stabilise the unstable ground.
Many residents are without running water after the sinkholes damaged vital pipes. Thames Water has set up emergency water stations for those affected.
Carl Bussey, Surrey County Council’s Assistant Director for Safer Communities, warned: “The situation remains dangerous due to exposed cables and compromised water pipes. We urge everyone to stay away from the area.”
Explosion Fears and Growing Anxiety
With fragile gas mains exposed, emergency teams are on edge about the risk of an explosion or fresh sinkholes forming.
An anonymous local resident, who has lived in the area for five years, described the terrifying wait to evacuate: “We were without water for hours. It came back at 3am, but the fear of another collapse is overwhelming. The sinkhole keeps growing – it’s terrifying to think our home could be next.”
Emergency Response Underway as Roads Stay Closed
Authorities from Surrey County Council and Tandridge District Council have put emergency accommodation in place for displaced families. Traffic diversions remain in operation around Godstone High Street.
Bussey added: “We understand the disruption this is causing, but safety is our priority. Engineers and geologists are working round the clock to assess the ground and start repairs.”
The Local Resilience Forum will keep meeting daily to co-ordinate the response and keep residents informed.
What Caused the Sinkholes?
Investigations are ongoing, but heavy rain, soil erosion, and years of heavy traffic are suspected to have weakened the ground beneath Godstone’s streets. Experts are also probing the underground water and sewage pipes for damage that may have contributed.
Important Advice for Residents
- Stay clear of all cordoned-off areas until they are declared safe.
- Follow updates from Surrey County Council and local news outlets.
- Residents needing help with accommodation or emergency water supplies should contact Tandridge District Council’s emergency hotline.
The community remains on high alert as teams race to prevent further collapses and secure the area.
