A lane closure has been put in place on Cromwell Road in Penrith after temporary steel road plates covering an excavation became dislodged and fell into the hole beneath.
The incident occurred on the approach to the Morrisons roundabout, one of the town's busiest traffic routes, prompting highways officials to take immediate action to ensure the safety of motorists.
The excavation was created as part of ongoing works to install a high-voltage electricity cable to serve the new electric vehicle charging station currently being developed within the Morrisons car park.
The cable installation works were expected to be completed last week, however temporary steel plates remained in place over the excavated section of road while the work was being finalised.
At some point, the plates became dislodged and fell into the excavation, leaving a significant hazard on the carriageway.
Highways staff from Westmorland and Furness Council attended the scene to assess the situation, with traffic management measures put in place shortly afterwards. Cones have been positioned around the affected area and a lane closure remains in force while the site is made safe.
Drivers travelling along Cromwell Road towards the Morrisons roundabout are being advised to take extra care and allow additional time for their journeys, particularly during busy periods.
The incident has caused some disruption to traffic travelling through the town this morning.
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