Solution for mineshaft hole could 'take time'

Repairing a hole in a road caused by a "significant" underground mineshaft might be a lengthy process, council bosses say.

About 150 residents protested in Troon, near Camborne, at the end of May calling for Cornwall Council to repair the hole on Newton Road as soon as possible.

A road closure put in place between Newton Moor and Grenville Gardens until 27 November has prompted concerns people will face unsuitable diversions.

In an update, the council's civil engineering contractor Cormac said initial investigations had shown "two historic mining features" were involved and more work would be needed.

It added one of the mines was located beneath the road and "extends to a significant depth", the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

"There is also a smaller feature in the verge, which has been regularly monitored and remains stable," a spokesperson said.

"Further work will take place this week to expose and assess underground utilities in the verge.

"Every site is different and the need to work around existing services and to co-ordinate with utility providers means it can take time to develop a long-term solution and carry out a safe repair."

A separate six-month road closure was put in place nearby in Pendarves Street, Beacon, after a mineshaft opened up, with the hole going down 40ft (12m).

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