Massive sinkhole opens on main road near homes

By Charlie Fenton

Dramatic images have captured a huge 32-foot-long sinkhole that opened up in the middle of a busy main road close to people's homes.

Drone images show the sinkhole that formed on Wednesday, Feb. 11, on Briscoe Lane, near the junction with Chelsea Road in Manchester, which was caused by a burst water pipe, according to United Utilities.

A 20-square-meter cordon using Heras fencing and yellow construction barriers has been set up by workers assessing the 18-foot-wide and nine-foot-deep hole.

Images also show how workers have since partially filled the ditch - which sits near residents' houses, using a digger.

Briscoe Lane is currently closed in both directions with a diversion in place for drivers passing through the area.

Yesterday, dozens of residents and business owners complained of having no water or little water pressure in their properties.

At the time United Utilities "apologized for the inconvenience caused" and they have since confirmed the burst has been fixed and water has been "restored" to the area.

However, they have warned that residents may need to wait a number of hours until water pressure is fully restored.

They have also said homeowners may come across a "discoloration" of the water from the tap, which the water company claims is "unlikely to be harmful and will settle down again with time."

The Manchester City Council says they are also aware of the incident.

United Utilities has been approached for further comment.