Sinkhole opens up in Liverpool

A ruptured water main is suspected to have caused a sinkhole in Liverpool.

Fire crews were called to the 4.5 metre (15ft) by six metre (20ft) sinkhole in Green Lane, Old Swan, at about 10.30pm on Friday, with three fire engines in attendance.

The fire service said in a statement: “The incident has generated running water which is affecting the junction of Prescot Road 500 metres west and Green Lane 100 metres north.

“Road closures are in place and several properties in the area are being affected.

“The suspected cause is a ruptured water main but this is not yet confirmed.

“Crews are working to restrict the flow of water and utilities companies are in attendance.”

The service added that road closures are in place and the public have been asked to avoid the area.