Emergency services declared a major incident in Shropshire after a large sinkhole opened up beneath a canal, swallowing multiple narrowboats in dramatic scenes captured on video.
Dramatic Footage Captures the Moment
Staggering footage shows the terrifying moment a canal boat was claimed by a gaping hole in the ground. The narrowboat was seen teetering precariously on the edge before slowly slipping down into the void. The incident occurred on the Llangollen Canal near the New Mills Lift Bridge in Whitchurch in the early hours of Monday, December 22.
A 999 call was received by Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service at 4.20am from a resident on one of the narrowboats, reporting significant water leakage following a breach in the canal wall. This triggered a large-scale emergency response.
Large-Scale Emergency Response
At the height of the incident, more than 50 firefighters were on the scene dealing with what was described as a 'significant breach' causing large volumes of water to escape into the surrounding land. The situation was made 'challenging' due to unstable ground and rapidly moving water.
More than 10 people were led to safety from nearby moored boats. Area Manager Scott Hurford confirmed that no persons were believed to be on board the affected boats at the time and no injuries were reported. Approximately 12 residents were supported and relocated to a welfare centre.
In total, three boats were claimed by the sinkhole. The fire service stated the 'emergency phase' was over within 12 hours, with the situation declared 'stable' and water flow 'reduced' by 8.30am.
Investigation and Clean-Up Begins
The Canal & River Trust has now taken over the reins to determine the cause of the breach. Their teams are on site and have dammed off the affected section of the canal. The towpath and canal at that point are closed to public access.
In a statement, a Canal & River Trust spokesperson said: "The priority is the safety of boaters and those in the immediate area. We are carrying out initial investigations into the possible cause of the breach and will provide more details in due course."
The Trust has pledged to restore water levels either side of the breach as soon as possible and is providing support to affected boaters. Those with disrupted boating plans, access, or business operations are urged to contact the Trust on 0303 040 4040 or via email at enquiries.westmidlands@canalrivertrust.org.uk.
