Residents in Panshanger are "disgusted", as they have not been able to move back into their homes almost six weeks after a large sinkhole appeared. 

On May 2, residents of Martlesham were evacuated from their homes after a deep sinkhole appeared that morning. 

Since then, residents have been placed in temporary accommodation by their property management company, Akelius Residential. 

The sinkhole has yet to be repaired and tenants have said there has been a "lack of communication" over the last few weeks.  

A meeting will be held tonight between the management company and residents.

Some tenants have claimed that they have been asked to pay their hotel bills upfront, which will later be reimbursed by the property management. 

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Andrew Caldin, a tenant at Martlesham, says he lived in his car for a number of days until he decided to take matters into his own hands and move back into his home, regardless of the safety measures placed. 

He said: "We have been treated so badly. People have been scattered around in hotels and some people have been forced to move homes seven times. 

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Residents have been evacuated after a sinkhole appeared in Panshanger.Residents have been evacuated after a sinkhole appeared in Panshanger. (Image: Supplied)

"We were promised that the fee of the hotels would be paid for but that's not been done yet.

"We were told that we would be sent a copy of a report on the sinkhole details, but none of us have been told anything and today diggers have shown up and none of us were notified of that happening." 

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Andrew was living in his car until he decided to move back into the home that he was evacuated from.Andrew was living in his car until he decided to move back into the home that he was evacuated from. (Image: Andrew Caldin)

Another resident who wished to remain anonymous said: "Apparently it might take another five weeks to get this started they have been atrocious with the way things have been dealt with. 

"Many of the residents are in debt because we still have to pay the rent, the parking fee and our accommodation costs in advance and they have not been reimbursed. 

"It is quite serious as it is affecting our finances, livelihoods and mental health." 

A spokesperson for Akelius Residential said: "We understand the residents' eagerness to return to their homes, and we share their concern and frustration regarding the prolonged displacement. 

"However, the decision to not move residents back into their homes, has been made with careful consideration for their safety and wellbeing. 

Welwyn Hatfield Times: The sinkhole on the street on the homes has been cornered off.The sinkhole on the street on the homes has been cornered off. (Image: Andrew Caldin)

"Based on the recommendations and guidance from specialist and experts, it has been determined that it is unsafe for residents to reside in the properties until all the required works and repairs are completed. 

"Ensuring the safety of our residents is our highest priority, and we are committed to taking all necessary measures to address the situation effectively.

"Akelius has been covering the costs of temporary accommodation in full. We continue to do so." 

Welwyn Hatfield Times: A digger has appeared on the street of the sinkhole and residents believe work may start soon.A digger has appeared on the street of the sinkhole and residents believe work may start soon. (Image: Supplied)

The spokesperson added: "We understand the concern regarding rent and parking fees during the period when residents have not been able to live in their homes. 

"As a responsible landlord, we have obligations under the signed agreement, and we are committed to fulfilling those obligations. 

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Andrew said there are no safety measures in place and people can just walk in and out.Andrew said there are no safety measures in place and people can just walk in and out. (Image: Andrew Caldin)

"To alleviate the financial burden of our evacuated residents, upon being provided quotes, we provide upfront payments for the temporary accommodation. 

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"However, it is important to note that the rental agreement remains in effect, and residents are still responsible for fulfilling their contractual obligations. 

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Workers were on the site of the sinkhole today.Workers were on the site of the sinkhole today. (Image: Andrew Caldin)

"We understand that this may be a source of frustration, and we are committed to working with residents individually to address any concerns or difficulties they may have." 

A meeting between residents and Akelius management will be held tonight to discuss the issues. 

Akelius intends to discuss the "progress made" and the "necessary safety measures" that have been implemented.