Kilkern completes sinkhole repairs in Partington

24th Jul 2025

Kilkern has brought relief to motorists with the completion of vital repair works on Covershaw Lane in Partington, following the collapse of the road surface caused by a sinkhole.

The road was closed in 2024 when a sinkhole appeared near Caldwell Brook. Investigations revealed that erosion of silty sand beneath the carriageway – likely due to the presence of a small watercourse running parallel to the road – had created a void under the surface layers.

Following extensive ground surveys, investigative work, and ecological assessments by prime contractor Amey, civil engineering and highways infrastructure specialist Kilkern was appointed to carry out the necessary repairs. The work involved excavating a rectangular area around the sinkhole to a depth of 1.2 metres to reach stable ground. Along the road edge, Kilkern installed 3 metres long sheet piles to reinforce the structure and protect it from future erosion caused by the nearby watercourse.

The excavated area was backfilled with Class 6N aggregate, compacted, and resurfaced. Additional safety upgrades included the installation of a new crash barrier, renewed road markings, and updated signage.

Engaging with stakeholders

Kilkern and Amey worked with client One Trafford Partnership to co-ordinate with local landowners and key organisations – including the Environment Agency, the National Trust, and local farmers – to ensure the repairs met all environmental and safety standards.

Kilkern director Patrick Curran commented:

Although we effectively had to make a larger hole to fix a smaller one, it was important that we worked from stable ground. Coupled with the piling along the edge of the carriageway, we’ve delivered a robust and long-term repair solution. We understand that this has been an issue affecting road users for some time so we are please to have delivered an excellent result which will allow Covershaw Lane to be safely used again.

Work commenced in June 2025 and was completed in early July 2025, restoring a vital local route and improving long-term safety for road users.