National Highways are advising road users to allow extra time if they are travelling on the A11 in Cambridgeshire as work is ongoing this afternoon to establish the source of a sinkhole which appeared yesterday. 

Lane two on both the north and southbound carriageways remains closed today with capacity significantly reduced and that has led to delays, particularly on the southbound carriageway at peak times.  

As investigations continue it may be necessary to fully close the southbound carriageway this afternoon, but National Highways are taking all necessary steps to avoid this by cutting vegetation back to provide alternative access so engineers can assess what has led to the subsidence.   

The sinkhole was first discovered yesterday afternoon between the junctions with the A1307 (Babraham) and the A1304 (Six Mile Bottom).

While its primary location is under the central reservation it does spread to lane 2 on both the north and southbound carriageways meaning a closure had to put in place on both lanes for the safety of those using the road.

These lane closures are expected to remain over the coming days. 

Craig Sowden, National Highways' operations manager in the east region, said: “With capacity already reduced on the road we are doing everything we can to keep the two remaining lanes open. 

“At this stage we need to establish what has led to the sinkhole so we can plan how we address the issue and get the road fully reopened and operating at its normal capacity.  

“Early indications suggest a drain could have collapsed or the subsidence could be related to a geological issue; this uncertainty means we are unsure whether a full closure of the southbound carriageway will be necessary.  

“Our advice to road users would be to avoid the area or allow extra time for your journey if that is not possible.  

“Any closure will be announced in due course.”

You can also contact National Highways by calling: 0300 123 5000 or via email info@nationalhighways.co.uk