A major incident was declared in Shropshire after a dramatic canal bank collapse created a large sinkhole, trapping three boats and releasing huge volumes of water into nearby land.
Early Morning Emergency on the Shropshire Union Canal
Emergency services were called to a "significant breach" of the Shropshire Union Canal near Drawbridge in Chemistry, Whitchurch, in the early hours of Monday, December 22. Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service received the call at 4.22am.
Crews arrived to find three canal boats caught in a developing sinkhole measuring approximately 50 by 50 metres. The situation was described as challenging due to unstable ground and fast-moving water escaping from the canal.
Multi-Agency Response and Rescue Efforts
Firefighters quickly established safety zones upstream and downstream of the breach. They used specialist equipment like barge boards and water gate systems to help reduce the flow of water.
During the operation, crews assisted more than 10 members of the public to safety. Area Manager Scott Hurford confirmed that no one was believed to be on board the affected boats and there were no reported injuries.
Approximately 12 residents from nearby moored boats were supported and relocated to a welfare centre set up at the former Whitchurch Police Station.
Situation Stabilised but Environmental Impact a Concern
The major incident was declared at 5.17am. By 8.30am, authorities reported the situation was stable, with water flow reduced and all search and rescue activity concluded.
A multi-agency response remains in place to manage the environmental impact of the escaped water, protect nearby properties, and ensure ongoing public safety. People are being urged to avoid the area.
West Midlands Ambulance Service sent multiple resources after a call from the fire service at 5.19am. A spokesperson confirmed there were no patients and their crews have since left the scene.
