Soot Hill in Anderton to remain closed for at least a year

On December 28, Soot Hill in Anderton had to be closed in both directions as a result of a landslip under the carriageway opposite Cosgrove Business Park.

Chester West and Chester Council has now set up a dedicated page on its website to provide residents with updates.

3D laser scan technology has been used to produce plans of the site and assist future works.

The dedicated webpage reads: “Now that the council has completed the 3D diagnosis and assessed the extent of the damage, the next stage of the stabilisation process is to prop the adjacent building to protect it from any further collapses.

The damage caused by the landslip (Paul Noden)

“A work platform will then be installed to allow works on site to dismantle the safety barrier and its footings.

“The footings are currently resting on two live electricity cables.”

The council added: “Due to the complex, difficult, and costly nature of the repairs needed, it is anticipated the road will remain closed for at least a further 12 months.

“Our response to the landslip is being progressed as promptly as possible.”

Barnyard Pet and Equestrian Supplies was one of the nearby businesses affected by the landslip, with staff discovering structural damage and mud and water inside their warehouse.

While the store has been open and assisting customers from the store front, it has only just been able to reopen for browsing this week – more than two months after the incident.

The road closure in Soot Hill

The team posted: “Thank you everyone for your patience over the last two months since the damage to our building caused by the landslide and the restrictions we have been working with.

“Obviously the repairs are not complete and we have still lost loads of warehouse space but we can't wait to have you all back in store properly.”

Visit cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/residents/transport-and-roads/highways/major-road-schemes/soot-hill.aspx