We regret that former Chalk Pit in Otford, including the entrance in Pilgrims Way East, will be closed to the public after an independent survey found large underground cavities throughout the site posing a danger to life.
In recent years, sink holes have appeared. As a safety precaution, we partially closed the site in September 2023 and brought in an independent surveyor to investigate the cause and extent of the problem using ground-penetrating radar.
The survey uncovered widespread evidence of large underground cavities, which may be filled with water. Many are believed to be close to the surface and could give way at any time, putting life in danger.
The site will be closed while we carry out further investigations, with additional fencing and signage being installed as a matter of urgency.
Members of the public should not enter the site for their own safety.
The public right of way between Tudor Drive and Station Road, around the edge of the Chalk Pit, currently remains open.
We remain committed to restoring the Chalk Pit so this popular open space can be reopened as soon as possible.
Ground-penetrating radar survey results
Download and view the survey reports
Timeline
|
Phase |
Activity |
Location |
Date |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Ground Penetrating Radar Survey |
Chalk Pit |
10 June 2024 |
|
1 |
Ground Penetrating Radar Survey |
Scout Hut site |
19 June 2024 |
| 1 |
Geologist and KCC Engineers Site Survey |
Chalk Pit | 26 June 2024 |
|
2 |
Intrusive Ground Testing, such as boreholes, trenches and electronic survey |
Chalk Pit |
Currently being costed. Work by the end of June |
|
3 |
Commissioned a Geologist/Hydrologist to view all results |
Chalk Pit & Scout Hut sites |
Early July 2024 |
Chalk pit questions and answers
Site history
During the Victorian period, the site was mined for chalk then used as a landfill site. In recent years, sink holes have appeared, which were subsequently filled in.
In 2021 Otford Parish Council ended its long-term lease on the former Chalk Pit due to mounting health and safety and maintenance costs from the sink holes and Ash Dieback. We took back responsibility for the site.
As there is new evidence of underground cavities, we will carry out further investigations. The surveys will provide recommendations and advice for our next steps.
There are no plans to develop the former Chalk Pit as the site is allocated as an open space in our current and new Local Plan.
If you have any questions about the site, please contact Trevor Kennett, Head of Direct Services.