Restrictions have been imposed on Newton Road, Newton-in-Furness, for safety reasons following ground investigations into the severity of a suspected mine collapse.
Traffic management measures have been in place since the suspected mine workings collapsed in October last year, and now it has been confirmed that the road will be closed to all vehicles weighing over 7.5 tonnes and measuring more than 7’6’’ (2.3m) wide, until remedial works have been completed.
It is not currently known how long this restriction will need to be in force.
Geotechnical survey work has revealed a localised deep void below the carriageway of Newton road.
However, Cumbria County Council said the ground immediately below the road surface (to a depth of at least 7 metres) has been found to be stable and free of voids and is currently showing no signs of collapse.
Nevertheless the weight restriction has been introduced for HGVs as a safety precaution and a diversion is in place.
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