WATCH: Latest update on Manchester's sinkhole misery
The sinkhole has closed one of Manchester's main routes in and out of the City Centre and could take several weeks to repair...
On Friday 14th August local residents were shocked when a giant sinkhole appeared on Mancunian Way. The sink hole has closed one of Manchester's main routes in and out of the City Centre could take several weeks to repair.
Our Chief Reporter Michelle Livesey visited the site and spoke to officials:
Engineers from United Utililities have spent the day on site trying to assess the damage caused.
The carriageway collapsed on Friday afternoon following heavy rainfall.
The closure, together with other roadworks in and around the city, has been causing travel chaos as a result.
A Manchester City Council spokesperson said: “United Utilities have been working at the site over the weekend, working closely with the city council, to assess the collapse. A repair plan is now in place to stabilise the hole and make the cavity watertight to allow engineers to restore the damage.
“This initial phase of work could take up to 10 days, but until we are completely satisfied that the area is safe, the section of Mancunian Way will remain closed in both directions."
“The diversions put in place last week will remain and signing will be re-inforced, including the use of variable message signs, but motorists using the route are asked to allow more time for their journey, which may take longer than normal.”
The diversion around the closed road remains in place.
Traffic will be diverted via London Road, Fairfield Street, A665, Hyde Road and Downing Street.