Depth of hole on evacuated estate 'not known'

A new exclusion zone is being set up

The authority investigating a hole that opened up on a housing estate built near former mining works has said it does not know how deep it is.

The Mining Remediation Authority said it would only know the depth of the void at Greenfield, near Pole Lane in Darwen, Lancashire, once further investigation had taken place.

Seven homes were evacuated at the weekend after a hole opened up in the road surface following heavy rains.

The site's developer, Tilia Homes, said on Tuesday: "The Mining Remediation Authority plans to temporarily fill the hole today and new fencing will be established to provide a clearer exclusion zone."

Tilia Homes also said: "Following instructions from the fire service, Cadent has turned off the gas supply whilst this work is being carried out."

The firm said it was continuing to support the six families who had to leave their homes.

Concerns have been raised about the development being built in a former mining area

Some residents said concerns had previously been raised about the development being built in an area that had been used for coal mining.

One posted on Facebook: "A sinkhole, where there are old mineshafts, who would have guessed it!"

Another added: "I remember our old neighbour saying this would happen before the houses were even built."

The Mining Remediation Authority said: "Keeping people safe is our number one priority and we are working with the council and housing developers to secure and stabilise the collapse as quickly as possible.

"Investigations continue to determine the cause of the incident and where responsibility lies."