Residents Evacuated Due to Godstone Sinkhole Expected to Return Home

Surrey County Council provides update on safety assessments and residential return plans following significant sinkhole incidents.

Most residents evacuated from Godstone, Surrey, after a large sinkhole incident last month are anticipated to return to their homes this weekend, according to statements from Surrey County Council.

The evacuation was initiated on February 17 when a sinkhole appeared in the High Street, prompting the evacuation of 30 homes.

A subsequent sinkhole emerged the following day in a nearby property's front garden.

Lloyd Allen, the council's infrastructure team manager, indicated that the return of residents is contingent on several factors, notably the safety of the water supply.

Despite six households being allowed to return shortly after the incident, 24 homes remained deemed unsafe.

Tandridge District Council (TDC) announced that they are confident it is now safe for all but four households to return this weekend.

In a recent communication, Allen emphasized the importance of ensuring that the water quality meets required standards before residents can safely return to their homes.

There has been an ongoing investigation into the cause of the sinkhole, with significant findings recorded from a ground penetrating radar survey revealing multiple anomalies in the area.

These anomalies could potentially indicate the presence of sub-surface tunnels, a deep sewer, or soakaways associated with the properties, though their exact nature has yet to be determined.

Further investigations will continue over the coming weeks, including engagement with specialist geotechnical engineers to analyze survey results and recommend additional borehole testing.

If findings suggest the existence of tunnels or voids, experts will deploy cameras for deeper inspection, although this process may extend over several months.

Meanwhile, businesses in the vicinity remain operational, except for one directly affected by the sinkhole incident.

Residents have expressed significant concerns regarding the emotional and psychological impacts of the evacuation.

One resident reported that their young child was particularly unsettled by the abrupt relocation, citing increased clinginess and sleep disturbances.

During a public meeting held nine days post-evacuation, Allen reiterated that residents' safety remains the council’s top priority before allowing them back into their homes.

TDC leader Catherine Sayer conveyed relief that nearly all households could return and expressed gratitude for the community's patience and cooperation during the challenging situation.

She also encouraged visitors to support local businesses affected by the disruption.