Rochester Primary School Shuts After Giant Sinkhole Erupts
A massive sinkhole has forced St Margaret’s at Troy Town School in Rochester to close today, October 17. The huge hole appeared right outside the school gates on King Street, caused by a burst water main flooding the area.
Chaos on King Street as Water Gushes
Emergency crews raced to the scene after water gushed uncontrollably from the sinkhole, flooding the street and forcing authorities to cordon off the area. The school sent an urgent warning to parents early this morning, telling them not to bring children in due to safety concerns.
Parents Left in the Lurch
Local mum Elisha George was on her way to drop off her kids at breakfast club when she got the sudden closure alert. “I understand the school is closed as it’s not safe with the sinkhole right by the school gates,” she said.
The school message to parents read: “Unfortunately, directly outside of school on King Street, there is a burst water main and sinkhole. King Street is not safe for children and families to access the school site.”
Repairs Underway, No Reopening Date Yet
Southern Water have switched off the water supply to help fix the damage. Work is ongoing but no timeline for reopening the school has been given. Families face ongoing disruption until the road and surrounding area are declared safe for students and staff.
