Press release

Geotechnical surveys continue on A249 near Sittingbourne

Highways England continues to analyse results of specialist geotechnical surveys under the northbound A249.

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Highways England is continuing to analyse the results of specialist geotechnical surveys to determine the extent of the damage under the northbound A249.

It follows a burst water main that Southern Water worked to repair last week.

Highways England and its contractors are working hard to establish what damage has been caused, and not just the obvious damage visible by the hole, and plan the repair work. The northbound carriageway remains closed between the A2 and the Bobbing junction and is likely to remain closed until at least the end January. The southbound A249 remains open.

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The hole under the northbound A249

A team of specialist engineers are analysing the results of the surveys already carried out to understand the extent of damage cause by the water pipe, which is located around 15 metres under the carriageway. Further surveys will be carried out on Tuesday (26 January) to detect any further changes. The detailed reports from both surveys are not expected back until Friday 29 January.

The northbound A249 will be reopened as soon as it is safe to do so once repairs to the damage underneath the carriageway have been completed. It is currently unsafe to reopen the outside lane as surveys have not confirmed the stability of the ground underneath it.

A clearly signed diversion is in place via the Sheppey Way, following the hollow diamond symbol. Road users in the area are advised to allow extra time for their journeys.

General enquiries

Members of the public should contact the Highways England customer contact centre on 0300 123 5000.

Media enquiries

Journalists should contact the Highways England press office on 0844 693 1448 and use the menu to speak to the most appropriate press officer.

Published 25 January 2016