Unexpected burrowing badgers spark major road repair emergency in Lincolnshire

Lincolnshire County Council declares emergency after burrows cause A15 to partially collapse

An infestation of burrowing badgers has caused a major road in Lincolnshire to partially collapse, sparking an emergency response from the county council.

The A15 Sleaford Road in Heckington was closed in both directions on Monday morning after a large hole appeared in the carriageway.

Lincolnshire County Council has since declared an emergency and is working to repair the damage.

Badgers are a protected species in the UK

Badgers are a protected species in the UK, and it is illegal to harm them or their setts.

However, the council said that the badgers had caused "significant damage" to the road and that the repairs would be "complex and time-consuming".

The council has urged drivers to avoid the area and use alternative routes.

The road is likely to remain closed for several weeks

The council said that the road is likely to remain closed for several weeks while the repairs are carried out.

It is not yet known how much the repairs will cost.

The closure of the A15 is causing major disruption to traffic in the area.

Diversions are in place

Diversions are in place, but drivers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys.

The council is asking drivers to be patient while the repairs are carried out.

The badger population in the UK is on the rise

The badger population in the UK is on the rise, and this is leading to an increase in the number of badger-related incidents.

In 2020, there were over 1,000 reported incidents of badgers causing damage to property or infrastructure.

The council is working with Natural England to develop a strategy to manage the badger population in Lincolnshire.