Permanent fix for Oropi Rd sinkhole to begin next week

The sinkhole opened up on Oropi Rd in August. Photo / File

A permanent fix for a sinkhole that opened up on Oropi Rd last year is in the works.

The sinkhole appeared near the Oropi Stream Bridge in August as a result of erosion from the stream.

From next Monday, the Tauranga City Council will start work on a permanent fix.

The works involve the installation of 8-metre deep steel sheet piles at the Oropi end of the bridge to prevent the stream from washing out embankment fill.

The works are expected to take a week and will involve full and partial road closures.

The sinkhole opened up on Oropi Rd in August. Photo / File

During the day, motorists will be able to use the bridge. However, there may be brief lane closures and traffic control.

From 8pm to 6am, Oropi Rd will be closed between Cheyne Rd and the Oropi Stream Bridge. A detour will be in place.

Residents may hear construction noise, feel some level of vibration during the night and observe light spill from the floodlights.