Arch Cot theory dismissed

A LOCAL geologist has dismissed the theory by a Canadian expert that vibrations from construction equipment caused the deadly collapse of an apartment complex at Arch Cot Terrace, Brittons Hill, St Michael, in 2007.
Leslie Barker, a retired Government geologist, told the Coroner’s Court yesterday that the collapse of the cave was a natural phenomenon which would have occurred with or without the vibrations.
Overseas expert Hans Machel had earlier testified to the contrary. 
“There is no doubt in my mind this cave would have collapsed sooner rather than later,” said Barker, whose team conducted a study on the caves in the Brittons Hill area after the collapse which resulted in the death of the Codrington family of five. (MB)
 
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