Families forced to flee their homes when huge sinkhole opened up in their street haven’t been able to return a YEAR on
The 33ft deep hole appeared in Fontmell Close, St Albans, on October 1 last year
FOUR families who were forced out of their homes after a massive sinkhole opened up in their road are still waiting to return - a YEAR after the hole appeared.
The 33ft deep hole appeared in Fontmell Close, St Albans, a former clay pit site, on 1 October last year.
Investigations into the cause mean utilities to some homes have not yet been restored and the road has not reopened - although Hertfordshire County Council hopes the work will be completed by Christmas.
Following the collapse in the early hours, families in more than 50 homes were left without power, water or sanitation before temporary solutions were provided for the majority.
Now, residents still have to use a temporary road built across a nearby heath.
The reported an investigation established the hole was caused by old mine workings.
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Councillor Terry Douris told the BBC: "It was essential that we established the cause of the collapse before we started repairs.
"This has been an extremely stressful time for the residents and it would be wonderful if they can be safely back in their homes for Christmas."
Meanwhile, Ben Bagshawe, who was evacuated with his heavily pregnant wife, said the pair have spent the first year of their son's life in a rented flat paid for by his insurance.
He said: "It's been frustrating but not the end of the world."
Rosemary and Derek Broom, who were able to stay in their house despite their close proximity to the sinkhole, described the road as "the safest place to live in the country".
Rosemary said: "The roads, the fields, the children's play area, everything has been so well surveyed we don't feel at all worried."