Engineers monitor sinkhole site

ENGINEERS are continuing to monitor a large sinkhole which appeared at Canynge Square in Clifton on Christmas Day.

A tree was spotted on the garden green in the centre of the square which then fell into a collapsed vault.

Bristol City Council have since given a new update to residents, five days on from the incident, assuring that there is no risk to them despite a substantial amount of ‘debris’ having fallen into the vault due to the stormy weather.

They say a full investigation will take place in the New Year.

A council spokesperson said: “Engineers continue to monitor the collapsed vault at Canynge Square, Clifton.

“Some debris has fallen into the cavity, which was expected following recent stormy weather, but we remain confident there is no risk to residents. We’re monitoring the situation and there will be more detailed investigations in the New Year.

“Secure fencing will remain in place around the area for the foreseeable future to ensure public safety.

“We urge people to refrain from attempting to access the square.”

Bristol City Council closed the road off on Boxing Day, with help from Avon and Somerset Police and Avon Fire & Rescue Service, while the large hole was being assessed.

Dominic Hogg, 55, who has lived on the street for 10 years, said: “Residents on the Square heard it. It was quite a big noise.

“It was quite strange. The tree is just gone. Straight down. Vertically down,” said Mr Hogg. “I suppose fortunately as far we can see, nothing was damaged and no people were hurt. It’s just sad that the tree, a lovely tree, is obviously gone. I guess the people looking at it now will be looking at how it has happened. It’s a pretty mature tree and it was resting on top of a couple of sort of arched vaults and it looks as though they have just given way.”

The 55-year-old, who works as an environmental consultant and is part of the neighbourhood garden committee, added: “It is an amazing sight, it is a crater!”