Scout Hut in Otford Chalk Pit reopens after being declared ‘safe’ by Sevenoaks District Council

A Scout hut which was closed after concerns about subsidence in the area has been declared “safe”.

Members of the 15th Sevenoaks (Otford) Scout Group have returned to the grounds after an extensive investigation.

Sevenoaks council closed the nearby former Chalk Pit, off Pilgrims Way East, in Otford, last month after a survey indicated there were large underground cavities throughout the site which posed a danger to life.

Members of the public have been warned not to enter for their own safety.

As a precautionary measure, the Scouts closed their hut as it borders the surrounding area and had experienced some historical structural problems.

The 15th Sevenoaks (Otford) Scout Group runs sessions for children aged six upwards.

It consists of a Beaver Colony, two Cub Packs and a Scout Troop – all who meet at the hut.

The council asked for an independent survey of the site around the hut using a ground-penetrating radar.

A report came back last Wednesday (July 3) and found no signs of subsidence or underground cavities.

Cabinet member Cllr Irene Roy said: “We’re really pleased the survey of the Scout hut and the surrounding land did not detect any issues of concern.

“It will be a great relief to all users of the Scout hut and the local community.

“We remain focused on carrying out further investigations as soon as possible so we can bring the much cherished former chalk pit back in to use.”

A structural survey of a retaining wall and embankment next to Pilgrims Way East was also found to be stable.

The council says it will continue the work to better understand the extent of the problems at the old Chalk Pit, with further testing planned.

The rest of the site is still closed until further notice.

The 15th Sevenoaks (Otford) Scout Group has been contacted for a comment.