Enterprise Way in Pinchbeck is due to reopen later today, Thursday, September 24, after months of work by Anglian Water and Lincolnshire County Council.
The road has been closed at its junction with Edison Court since May, when the surface collapsed and initial repairs failed. The closure has affected a busy route and caused disruption for local businesses and residents.
The repair was undertaken after a long history of problems at the location. Lincolnshire County Council said the site had experienced recurring sinkhole issues for nearly 10 years. Instead of carrying out another short-term repair, the council worked with Anglian Water to investigate the underlying causes.
Drainage and water recycling systems repaired
The work involved significant excavation at the Enterprise Way junction. Repairs were carried out to the highway drainage system as well as Anglian Water’s water recycling infrastructure.
Engineers completed a full camera survey of both systems to examine the problems beneath the road. Sections of both systems were replaced, while Anglian Water’s system was also re-lined. The reinstatement was then completed by Anglian Water after time had been taken to help ensure the repair would last.
The county council said it is now confident the underlying issues have been addressed. However, the source does not give an exact time for the reopening beyond saying it will happen this evening, and it does not say whether any temporary traffic restrictions or access arrangements will remain once the road opens.
Water company to remain responsible for three years
Ashley Behan, traffic manager at Lincolnshire County Council, confirmed the planned reopening and said Anglian Water would remain responsible for the reinstatement for the next three years.
“I’m pleased to confirm that Enterprise Way will reopen this evening (Thursday).”
Mr Behan apologised for the length of the disruption, particularly to businesses and residents affected by the closure. He also thanked people for their patience and understanding while the council and water company investigated the recurring failures and carried out the more extensive repairs.
The council said it would hold Anglian Water to account if further issues arise during the three-year responsibility period. That arrangement means the reinstatement will remain under review after the road reopens, rather than the work simply being treated as complete when the route returns to use.
Mr Behan said the length and complexity of the project reflected the need to find a lasting answer to the problems at the junction.
“After nearly 10 years of recurring sinkhole issues at this location, it was important that we worked with Anglian Water to fully investigate the root causes rather than simply carry out another short-term repair.”
He said the council hoped the extensive work would provide a long-term solution and prevent further problems at the Enterprise Way and Edison Court junction.
