A massive sinkhole that engulfed a section of a busy street has finally been repaired after 18 months since its emergence. The sinkhole, which caused the evacuation of several homes and disrupted traffic flow in Surrey, has been successfully filled with approximately 1,100 tons of grout.
The 65-foot hole appeared suddenly on February 17, 2025, leading to the evacuation of around 30 residences, closure of businesses, and the blockage of a major town road. Residents endured diversions, ongoing construction, and economic challenges for over a year and a half.
Local resident Holly Harrington, 24, expressed relief at the reopening of the road, stating that it was a pleasant sight to see after enduring frequent detours. Engineers encountered an extensive network of 19th-century mining tunnels beneath the street, necessitating thorough safety measures before the final reconstruction.
Matt Furniss of Surrey County Council expressed satisfaction with the completion of the road repair following the collapse in Godstone. SES Water also finished replacing damaged water mains before the street was reopened, emphasizing the importance of the community’s patience during the essential work.
Earlier, resident Toria Willson, 50, highlighted the inconvenience caused by the prolonged closure, describing the area as congested with trucks and vans. The reopening of Godstone High Street marks the end of a challenging period for residents, businesses, and commuters in the region.