Residents warn of speeding danger after sinkhole closes West Sussex village road
A road in East Wittering has been closed after the appearance of a sinkhole, with the closure causing disruption for motorists, bus passengers and nearby residents.
West Sussex Highways confirmed the closure of Stocks Lane in a social media update, on Tuesday (June 30).
The county council department stated, at 4.45pm: "Due to the appearance of a sinkhole, a road closure has been requested on Stocks Lane. We will update you when we have further information."
On Wednesday evening, the council provided an update.
A spokesperson said: “A sinkhole on Stocks Lane was reported to us yesterday afternoon. As a precaution, the road was closed while investigations were carried out.
“Our inspections identified a cavity approximately 0.5m deep and around 1ft wide. Southern Water has confirmed there is no issue with its sewer network and, at this stage, we believe the cause to be ground shrinkage. Ground shrinkage can happen during prolonged periods of dry weather, when moisture is lost from the soil causing it to contract and, in some cases, create holes in the road surface.
“A highways repairs team will attend the site first thing tomorrow (Thursday) morning to carry out repairs. Subject to the work being completed as planned, we expect to reopen the road tomorrow.
“While the closure remains in place, motorists are asked to follow the signed diversion route and take extra care when using nearby residential roads. We are aware of increased traffic on Peerley Road and Cormorant Way and would remind drivers to adhere to speed limits and drive considerately.
“The closure is also affecting local bus services. Stagecoach has advised that services can currently operate only as far as East Wittering shops and are unable to serve Bracklesham at present. Passengers are encouraged to check the Stagecoach website for the latest travel information.”
Residents say the closure has affected local bus services, with some schoolchildren missing their buses this morning as routes were disrupted.
The road closure has also resulted in increased traffic on nearby residential roads, including Peerley Road and Cormorant Way, as motorists seek alternative routes.
One resident said the streets had become ‘the new Stocks Lane’, as drivers use them as a cut-through, adding that some vehicles were travelling at excessive speeds.
They urged motorists to drive more carefully, saying the area is home to many free-roaming cats and residents whose dogs spend time in unfenced front gardens, warning that speeding traffic is an ‘accident waiting to happen’.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area where possible and allow extra time for their journeys.