Four partially collapsed homes will be cleared on Walmer Street in Abbey Hey after a sink hole opened in the road during the recent Storm Christoph.

The cause of the sinkhole is not yet known and a full investigation is underway by the Council with engineering input from United Utilities. However, it could be some weeks before the full investigations are complete.

17 homes in total were evacuated and these families have been supported into alternative accommodation and are receiving ongoing support from the Council.

Last week, initial investigations were carried out by the Council and United Utilities to assess the road for other weaknesses before a contractor could bring a crane on to the street, now expected tomorrow. (Tuesday 2 February)

The clearance work at 21, 23, 25 and 27 Walmer Street will need to be done gradually and by hand to avoid further collapse of the affected properties and to ensure the process is as safe as possible. This could take around two weeks to complete.

The timescale for the repair work to the road is currently unknown and is pending further investigation of the sinkhole.

Residents who have been evacuated along with those who remain in their homes on the street are receiving regular updates about the ongoing situation.

Cllr Nigel Murphy, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “This incident could’ve been much worse and I’d like to thank the Council officers, United Utilities and the emergency services for their response on the night that kept people safe. Those people who were evacuated from their homes are receiving continued support from the Council and we will keep them up to date throughout.

“It’s important that the clearance of the collapsed homes can get underway as quickly as possible to limit the chance of further collapse, and contractors will be onsite as early as Monday next week. The investigation around the cause of the sink hole is ongoing.

“The response from the Gorton and Abbey Hey community to support the families affected by the collapse has been remarkable too. This is the true Manchester spirit in action and a huge thank you is in order to the local people, organisations and charities who have rallied to make sure those affected have everything they need.”

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