Subsidence of Streets.

Gisborne Times, Volume VI, Issue 240, 18 October 1901, Page 3

Subsidence of Streets.

SERIOUS DAMAGE TO PROPERTY

Newcastle, October 4,

A sensation has beefi caused at Carring

ton, near Newcastle, by the subsidence of streets. It is believed to be due to an extensive fall in the Wickham and Bullock

Island colliery. During last night portions of streets subsided to the extent of 8

inches to 12 inches, causing water pipe: and gas mains to burst. Hargreaves streei is in a flooded state this morning, owim

to the bursting of a water-pipe. The'area affected is known as the “ Litbgow district." The seam was about five feet (j inches in thickness. Work at the colliery

has been suspended for a few days, till the extent of the falls can be ascertained. The damage to the streets and buildings is considerable. At the Council Chambers

the stone steps parted, and the wall cracked from top to bottom. A cottage opposite the Chambers had the foundations destroyedrdeaving the residence in danger of collapsing. The occupants. Robert Burt and family, left the house. Mrs Burt is au invalid, and owing to the door of her bedroom becoming jambod by the subsidence, she had to be taken out through the window. Other families have also loft the locality, fearing more serious damage. During tho night an old man went out with a lighted candle to see the extent of the fall in the street. He happened near one of the broken gas pipes, and an explosion followed. He was thrown some distance, and was slightly scorched. About live years ago an extensive fall took place in the same colliery, which caused serious subsidence in Wickham.