'Massive' pothole causing issues in Pykenham Way in Hadleigh

Pykenham Way in Hadleigh experienced heavy flooding following Storm Babet in October, when water settled into the pothole.

While a flood diversion sign was in place, cars would still drive through the water and fears were raised that the surface of the road was wearing away under the layer of water.

The pothole was, until drainage, under a layer of water. (Image: Charlotte Bond)

Amanda Berry, who lives on the street, said that while flooding has been an issue intermittently for years, there was a backup of water from the storm in October 2023.

Ms Berry said: "The pothole has been causing major issues. Cars are now driving on the pavement to avoid it, and now the pavement is starting to break up.

"It is causing larger issues. Pavements are not designed for cars.

"Council workers came to drain away the water, but there is a massive pothole in the road and the debris covers the whole street.

"I am also afraid of it becoming a sinkhole, and I worry someone will hurt themselves.

Amanda Berry described the situation as dire. (Image: Charlotte Bond)

"I've never seen anything like it. It is dire. We can hear the thudding of cars driving over it, as the hole is so deep."

Concerns were raised last month over the depth of floodwater in the street, which had not shifted since the storm in October 2023, leaving people unable to use their front gates.

The water was as deep as the curb and hid the large pothole.

A spokesperson from Suffolk Highways at Suffolk County Council said: "We are aware of the concerns raised regarding the road condition along Pykenham Way, Hadleigh.

"Now that the flood water has dispersed, the road will be assessed and any defects that meet our criteria will be ordered for repair. "