Investigation fails to find what caused sinkholes

An investigation into two sinkholes that opened up during city-centre renovation work has failed to find out what caused them.

The first hole appeared on Orchard Street in Preston on 23 July before a larger one appeared last week.

The first crater led to work on the thoroughfare, which connects Friargate South to the market area, being put on hold.

Preston City Council said a series of surveys carried out with Lancashire County Council and United Utilities had so far proved inclusive.

In a letter to traders affected by the delayed work, the local authority said: "United Utilities is reviewing the findings [of the surveys], but at this time it does not appear that the void has been caused by any of its assets.

"Investigations by all agencies will continue and once a solution to address the cause of the problem – and a course of action – is agreed upon, works will resume on Orchard Street.

"We recognise that this delay and the resulting disruption is of concern to businesses.

"However, resolving the issue on Orchard Street is essential to ensure the long-term integrity of the highway and underground infrastructure."

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