Bucks HS2 Chilterns tunnel sinkhole: Results of pollution investigation revealed

Saturday, 17 February 2024 08:00

By Charlie Smith - Local Democracy Reporter

A Buckinghamshire sinkhole caused by tunnel boring for the HS2 rail project did not cause pollution, an investigation has concluded.

A sinkhole that was first reported on land near Hyde End and Heath End in November did has now been filled in in by HS2 Ltd in agreement with the landowner, the Environment Agency said.

A spokesperson told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “Following an investigation of a sinkhole on private land near Amersham in Buckinghamshire, we found that there was no pollution to the local environment or permits breached.

“Our specialist officers work closely with HS2 Ltd and contractors to ensure all relevant legislation is followed.

“We also continue to talk to local people, the water industry and local authorities to ensure the environment is protected throughout the HS2 project.”

The agency said the matter of the sinkhole was for HS2 Ltd and the landowner to manage as it was not an environmental issue.

The sinkhole is the second in the area caused by HS2 tunnel boring after another sinkhole opened up near Little Missenden in May.

A pair of HS2 tunnel boring machines called Florence and Cecilia are currently operating under the ground Great Missenden and South Heath.

The 2,000 tonne machines are digging the twin-bore Chilterns Tunnel, which at 10 miles (16 km) long, is the longest tunnel on the HS2 route between London and Crewe.