A lorry dispatched to repair a sinkhole on a rural road in Somerset has itself become trapped in the very hole it was meant to fix. The incident occurred on Butleigh Drove, near Walton, when the ground beneath the vehicle gave way, leaving it tilted at a precarious 45-degree angle.
Contractor's Vehicle Stranded
Workers from Stabilised Pavements, the company contracted to carry out the repairs, were forced to abandon the lorry after the road surface collapsed. The vehicle now sits at a steep angle, awaiting recovery.
Local Councillor's Criticism
Lucy Trimnell, an opposition councillor in Somerset, voiced strong criticism of the council's approach to road maintenance. She likened the repair strategy to "trying to darn a pair of fishnet tights" and warned that the road network was "rapidly deteriorating."
Council's Explanation
Richard Wilkins, the portfolio holder for transport and waste services, explained that contractors had been addressing damage caused by Storm Chandra in January, as well as other weather events. He stated: "As with other parts of the country, the recent cycle of wet and freezing conditions has led to a sudden deterioration in many roads."
A spokesperson for Somerset Council confirmed that the lorry would be recovered. They added: "Planned highway works are taking place on Butleigh Moor Drove near Walton, and these works are being delivered by contractors. The road is constructed on peat and has experienced significant movement and rutting. Issues of this nature can occasionally arise when carrying out works in these conditions."
Next Steps
Following the recovery of the lorry, the site will be assessed to determine the most appropriate approach to complete the repairs. Stabilised Pavements has been approached for comment.
This article was amended on 12 May 2025 to correct the spelling of Lucy Trimnell's surname.
