A major road in Leigh has been closed after a sinkhole emerged, prompting safety concerns and calls for a permanent solution from local councillors.
Road Closure Details
Following reports from residents on Tuesday evening of a partial collapse of the carriageway, council engineers took the decision on Wednesday to close Westleigh Lane for safety reasons. The road is currently shut off to traffic close to its junction with Abbey Lane.
Cause and Investigation
Ward councillor Dane Anderton said the depression in the road surface 'appears to be linked to United Utilities equipment, possibly the sewer network'. He stated that United Utilities were investigating to determine the exact cause.
Councillor Demands
Anderton added: “I have asked council officers to make it clear to United Utilities that this is the second or third time this area has been dug up and the road has had to be closed. Residents deserve a proper, long-term fix rather than repeated disruption, and I have asked that they fully resolve the problem this time. Access to Abbey Lane will be maintained, and there may be temporary traffic signals introduced to help keep traffic moving around the area.”
Social Media Updates
Another local councillor, David Evans, wrote on social media: “Westleigh Lane is now closed due to a highway deformity which could lead to a sinkhole in the road at the junction with Abbey Lane. Access to Abbey Lane is from the Dangerous Corner side of Abbey Lane. No access is possible from the Westleigh High side of Abbey Lane.”
Impact on School
Westleigh High school posted on social media: “We have been made aware of a sinkhole on Westleigh Lane, just north of the school, at the junction with Abbey Lane. As a result, the road is currently closed. Please allow extra time for your journey to school, as traffic in the surrounding area is likely to be heavier than usual and access may be limited. Students who arrive late due to the road closure will not receive a late detention.”
Historical Context
Previous sinkholes in the Leigh area have been attributed to the coal mining history of the town, with several collieries operating in the area in the past.
