Penzance could face road closure for 'months' after possible mine shaft opens up
Engineering works are being carried out on Polmeere Road
Last updated 11th May 2022
A road closure has been put in place after a possible mine shaft opened up in Penzance.
The area on Polmeere Road was originally believed to be a pothole but now investigations are underway to see if it is an old mine shaft.
Cornwall Council says essential remedial work is taking place so the area can be made safe and the closure will be in place 24/7.
Tim Dwelly, who is the councillor for Penzance East, posted the update on his Facebook page.
He confirmed that no homes are currently at risk but the road closure could potentially be in place for months.
He said: "POLMEERE ROAD URGENT UPDATE: I'm sorry to report that what was originally thought to be a pothole is now being investigated as a possible mine shaft...
"As soon as Highways discovered the scale of the hole, your safety became the top priority. I attach a notice explaining everything. I stress that this is not yet confirmed as an old mine work, but tests are urgently being carried out (using new technology such as radar and drones). If necessary a full professional mining investigation will take place.
"NB This incident is NOT thought to put any homes at risk. But the diversion will have to remain until the road is made totally safe. This could take months I am afraid. I will provide updates. For residents of Manor Way/Close area this will I know be very inconvenient. But I am sure you will understand that there is no choice but to take this seriously and make the road usable only when this is fixed."