Villagers concerned over reappearing sinkhole in Bovingdon, UK

After sinkhole was filled in by the land owners, HMP The Mount, but collapsed again.

Villagers are looking for reassurance that land in Bovingdon where a reoccurring sinkhole has appeared is suitable for future development.

The sinkhole, which first appeared around January 17 this year on land by HMP The Mount, was said to be approximately 15ft deep. But soon after the owners of the land, the prison, filled the sinkhole with concrete and soil, the hole collapsed again on February 23.

Many residents in Bovingdon have joked about the hole being a prisoner's escape but serious questions have been raised surrounding the suitability of the land for future housing development plans, whether the hole was filled properly the first time, and what the hole means for residents living nearby.

Ross Butcher, national chair of ModeShift, who lives in Mitchell Close next to the Molyneaux Avenue prison, said: "The sinkhole was discovered by someone walking their dog one morning, and I then went out the next day to take pictures.

"I can also see the hole from my bedroom window.

"It's certainly created a stir in the village, particularly as the land has been identified for development."

The site is included in Dacorum Borough Council's strategy for housing development in Bovingdon up to the year 2031.

Mr Butcher added: "Residents have also raised concerns as to whether the hole was filled in or surveyed properly the first time, because it collapsed again, and are asking whether developing on the land is the right thing to do.

Shaun Jepson, speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Justice, has responded to reassure residents.

He said: "We are aware of an issue regarding the land next to HMP The Mount and are working to resolve it.

"There is no risk to members of the public, prisoners or prison staff as the area has been fenced off and is on private property with no public access.

"We are still in discussions with the Homes and Communities Agency regarding future options for the surplus land.

"The Ministry of Justice is required to dispose of any surplus property as quickly as possible while ensuring we get the best value for taxpayers' money."