Hogg Lane sinkhole latest

Experts are continuing to examine the sinkhole which is estimated to be two metres wide and at least 15 metres (or 50ft) deep (approximately the volume of two London double decker buses) and the lorry stuck across the hole is expected to have been moved today if contractors, owners, and police agree it can be done safely. Investigations into the cause of the sinkhole are also continuing and it will not until those are complete that repairs can begin. Various utility companies have been contacted about pipelines within or close to the void. Thurrock Council is hopeful the sinkhole can be secured so foot traffic can pass by in the next few days and it is examining options to relieve the traffic delays in and around the town and surrounding area as the closure of Hogg Lane continues. However, temporary traffic lights are to be installed at the junction of Eastern Way and Bankfoot over the weekend to ease access to Badgers Dene which has been particularly affected by the congestion.