Sinkhole appears on busy Royton road 'being used as rat run'

A large sinkhole has opened up on Berkeley Drive in Royton, creating a dangerous hazard on a road that's become a busy rat-run since nearby Sheepfoot Lane closed for maintenance work in February.

Local resident Mark Nicholls, a 50-year-old painter and decorator who lives on the street, discovered the sinkhole on Wednesday morning. He warned that the hole goes right through the tarmac with nothing underneath, meaning vehicles passing too close could fall in.

The problem has been made worse by the Sheepfoot Lane closure, which is expected to last several months. With that major route shut, more drivers are using Berkeley Drive as an alternative, increasing the risk of accidents with the sinkhole present.

Berkeley Drive is a crucial road for the area, connecting Royal Oldham Hospital with Boundary Park, home of Oldham Athletic. It's regularly used by hospital patients and football fans, making the sinkhole a particular concern for vulnerable road users.

Oldham Council has responded quickly, placing barriers around the sinkhole and promising further investigations. A spokesperson thanked residents for their patience while the issue is being resolved, though no timeline has been given for repairs.