Dramatic footage shows landslip aftermath on key Swanscombe A-road as Kent residents describe shock

Tap to watch this video report from ITV News Meridian's James Dunham

A road in Kent has been closed after a cliff collapsed, causing debris to fall onto a warehouse below.

Police have shut Galley Hill Road in Swanscombe after part of the carriageway and pavement crumbled, believed to have been caused by a burst pipe.

Almost 600 houses are being supported by tankers to keep locals supplied with clean water whilst repairs take place.

A Thames Water spokesperson said: “On Monday 10 April, we responded to reports of a large burst water main on Galley Hill Road (A226).

"Our engineers have shut off the water supply from the affected mains pipe and we are keeping local customers’ taps flowing using tankers. We are also exploring options to move water around our network to help keep them in supply. 

“There are engineers on site today investigating the cause of the landslide. Our teams will repair the pipe when it is deemed safe to do so. 

“The police have closed the road and we would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused to local residents and motorists during this time.” 

The collapse was first reported on 10 April and officers swiftly shut the A226 in both directions.

A statement from Kent County Council (KCC) said the closure is expected to remain in place until further notice and that diversions are in force.

KCC Highways and Kent Fire & Rescue Service were also called, but fire crews have since left the scene after it was made safe.

Engineers have been on site today to assess the road structure, but there is currently no timeframe for when repairs will take place.

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