A massive sinkhole has developed in the Shropshire Union Canal in Whitchurch, England, trapping two narrowboats and leading emergency services to declare a major incident. The event, which occurred in the early hours of December 22, 2025, resulted in the safe rescue of more than ten individuals and has been stabilized with no reported casualties.
The sinkhole, measuring approximately 50 meters by 50 meters, caused a significant breach in the canal bank, draining a large section of water and beaching three boats. Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service responded to reports of the collapse at around 5 a.m., declaring a major incident due to the unstable ground and rapidly moving water. Rescue teams, including six fire crews from nearby stations, worked in challenging conditions to establish safety sectors and mitigate water flow using barge boards and water gate systems.
Authorities confirmed that all individuals were evacuated from the affected boats, and no injuries were reported. Scott Hurford, Area Manager at Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service, stated that search and rescue activities have ended, and the situation is now stable. Emergency services, coordinated through the Shropshire Tactical Co-ordination Group, included West Mercia Police, West Midlands Ambulance Service, and other agencies to manage the incident.
The Canal and River Trust, the UK’s largest canal charity, has initiated investigations into the possible cause of the breach, with initial reports pointing to an embankment failure. Their teams have dammed off the affected section between Lock 6 Grindley Locks and Bridge 31A to prevent further water loss and ensure safety. A spokesperson emphasized that the priority is the safety of boaters and residents in the immediate area, with more details to follow as the inquiry progresses.
Canal boats, or narrowboats, are historic vessels used for cargo transport and now serve as floating homes and for recreation. The Shropshire Union Canal is part of Britain’s extensive canal network, and the incident has disrupted local activities and tourism. Approximately 12 residents from nearby moored boats have been relocated to a welfare center at the former Whitchurch Police Station, with others advised to avoid the area.
The environmental impact includes waterlogging of surrounding land, and emergency services are working to manage this while protecting nearby properties. The multi-agency response highlights the coordinated efforts in dealing with such infrastructure failures, but it also raises concerns about the maintenance and stability of aging canal systems. Engineers from the Canal and River Trust are conducting thorough assessments to determine the exact cause and prevent future occurrences.
Looking ahead, the Canal and River Trust will provide updates on repair timelines and safety measures. The incident underscores the vulnerability of managed waterways to geological hazards and the importance of regular inspections. Authorities may review canal stability across the region, and alternative routes could be established for canal traffic until the section is repaired. The community and boaters await further information as investigations continue.
