Busy Paignton road to close for weeks after large void discovered

A road in Paignton is expected to remain closed for four to six weeks after a large void was discovered beneath the surface.

Torbay Council said Sands Road, near the junction with Belle Vue Road, was closed after the void – around 3m (10ft) deep and stretching 3m by 8m (10ft by 26ft) – was identified. A smaller hole, about 1m (3ft) wide, is visible at the surface.

The ‘emergency’ incident happened just before the Easter weekend, and dozens of homes and businesses were temporarily without water.

The council, working with South West Water and SWISCo, found a defect in a large drainage pipe beneath the road at a depth of 4.5m (15ft), which will also need to be repaired.

The work has been complicated by difficult ground conditions and uncertainty around the stability of the void. Contractor CORMAC has now been appointed to carry out the repairs.

The road will remain closed in both directions around the affected area for an estimated four to six weeks. Fencing is in place to secure the site, and diversions have been set up for drivers.

Torbay Council has thanked the public for their patience and advised residents to check its social media channels for updates.