Major incident declared in Shropshire as sinkhole affects canal

A major incident had been declared in Shropshire following reports of a sinkhole affecting a canal in the Chemistry area of Whitchurch.

Emergency services are currently on the scene, and a multi-agency response has been set up, co-ordinated through the Shropshire Tactical Co-ordination Group (TCG).

There are currently no reports of any casualties, and residents are being assisted by the fire service.

A picture seen by Sky News shows a whole section of the canal completely drained of water. Two narrowboats appear to have fallen into the hole and are sitting on the canal bed.

Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service said on X: "Shropshire FRS is responding to a landslip affecting the canal in the Whitchurch area.

"For everyone's safety, members of the public are kindly asked to remain away from the affected area, including Whitchurch Marina, while crews and partners manage the incident."

(c) Sky News 2025: Major incident declared in Shropshire as sinkhole affects canal