A section of Milton Road in Cambridge has been closed in both directions following the sudden appearance of a large sinkhole near the "magic roundabout," a complex junction known for its 36 traffic lights. The roundabout, which opened just over 18 months ago as part of a £32 million infrastructure investment, has become a local landmark but also a source of confusion for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Witnesses described the sinkhole as large enough to accommodate two cars, prompting immediate road closures to ensure public safety. The disruption has raised concerns about the construction quality and maintenance of the relatively new junction.

Cambridge councillor Mohamed Delowar Hossain called for an investigation into the workmanship of the project, emphasizing the need for accountability given the significant cost and recent completion. Another councillor, Elisa Meschini, who previously chaired the Greater Cambridge Partnership responsible for delivering the city’s infrastructure projects, suggested that the sinkhole might be linked to ongoing Anglian Water works in the vicinity. She argued that if the water company’s activities were responsible, taxpayers should not bear the financial burden for repairs.

Anglian Water responded to the incident by confirming that it had sent teams to assess the site but asserted that its roadworks were unlikely to have caused the sinkhole. The company did not comment further on potential liabilities.

Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the collapse as engineers assess the site for repairs. No injuries have been reported, but the closure is expected to impact traffic flow significantly, and local commuters are advised to seek alternative routes until the road can reopen safely.