Work to repair a sinkhole that appeared over two years ago in Castle Cary has finally been completed, allowing the road to reopen.
Somerset Council officially reopened the B3152 Station Road on Friday, 14 August, ending more than two years of disruption caused by the sinkhole. The issue first emerged in July 2021 near the site of a new development by Persimmon Homes Severn Valley, which includes 162 homes, commercial space, and a new primary school.
Temporary traffic lights were installed in July 2023 after the sinkhole formed in the carriageway. An initial attempt to repair a depression in the road revealed a more complex underlying problem.
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The project required deep excavation of the culvert beneath the road, comprehensive investigations, and close coordination with utility companies and other partners. According to the council, the restricted watercourse could not be fully assessed until excavation was underway, necessitating carefully designed temporary works before permanent repairs could proceed.
Tom Stockley, Operations Manager for Kier in Somerset, who contributed to designing and delivering the project, commented: “This was a complex and challenging scheme which required careful planning, detailed investigation, and close collaboration throughout. The team adapted the design as site conditions became clearer, ensuring a safe, robust, and long-term repair for Station Road.”
Councillor Richard Wilkins, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Highways and Transport, expressed his satisfaction with the reopening: “I am delighted the road is reopening. Although the repairs took longer than expected, we needed to fully understand the conditions beneath the road to deliver a safe and lasting solution. We appreciate the disruption caused and thank everyone affected for their patience and understanding during these essential repairs.”
He added that the design was adapted throughout the project in response to findings on site, resulting in a robust repair to protect the highway for years to come.