(ORDO NEWS) — The damaged road could cost millions to repair after mysterious subterranean movements deformed it so much that it looks like it was hit by an earthquake.
A section of the B4069 road near Lynaham in Wiltshire was so badly damaged that the pavement had completely come off or lay at a 45-degree angle.
Wiltshire Council said the road has been closed since Feb. 17, but some drivers are still trying to use it, according to police.
Earthquake-like damage was caused by unexplained subterranean movements, which will now be studied. Local residents claim that the subsidence has intensified over the past year, and a landslide was inevitable.
Wiltshire Council said it is now waiting for a report from geotechnical experts before taking further action. Dr Mark McClelland, cabinet minister for the Wiltshire Transport Council, told BBC Radio Wiltshire: “It could cost hundreds of thousands or millions [in repairs].”
The road suffered significant damage. In total, this can take up to 12 months. It’s not something that can be resolved in a few days or weeks.”
Dr. McClelland added that in some places the road “cambered” up to four feet, and the descriptions that it looked like an earthquake were accurate.
Wiltshire Council is awaiting a report from geotechnical experts before proceeding with repairs to understand what caused the change in the road’s topography.
He added: “The underlying soil has subsided, and we need to understand why this happened.” The police have made it clear that it is very dangerous for motorists to ignore the signs.”
The notable damage is also affecting local businesses, with local pubs such as the Peterborough Arms suffering huge losses in bookings after closing.
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