WORK to repair a sinkhole that appeared in the centre of Oxford is taking longer than expected.

The sinkhole, which appeared as a result of a burst underground pipe yesterday, was due to be fully repaired at some point this afternoon. 

However, Thames Water, which has taken the lead on the operation, said that the 'complex nature of the job' and the area's 'historical importance' had slowed things down.

Work, which has seen Broad Street closed, is now due to conclude by the end of the week.
 

Oxford Mail:

Spokesman Lee Irving said:“Due to the complex nature of this job and the location’s historical importance, the repair will take longer than anticipated. 

"We’re working with Oxfordshire County Council’s archaeologist to carry out the work, and have closed Broad Street to complete the repair and reinstate the road safely.

“We’re sorry for any inconvenience caused, and we expect the work to be finished by the end of the week.”

Oxford Mail:

Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue said they were contacted about the hole, near the Sheldonian, at about 8am on Tuesday.

At the time, county council spokesman Martin Crabtree said: “Our fire and rescue service attended Broad Street at around 8am following reports of a hole in the road. 

"Further investigations carried out by our own highways team and

Thames Water found that water from a leaking pipe had caused the damage."

Oxford Mail:

All pictures by John Welsby