The mystery of Halifax's downtown sinkholes has been solved.

Over the past week, two different holes have appeared at the busy intersection of Barrington and Cornwallis Streets. The last one was more than 2 metres in diameter.

Initial inspections of the sewer pipes didn't turn up anything unusual. Construction crews used an underground camera to take a look under the pavement.

But Wednesday, Halifax water officials said they found a broken 12-inch pipe under Barrington Street.

The pipe carries water from a catch basin to the sewer lines.

Officials said crews will go in Thursday to fix the pipe. They hope to have the road re-opened by the afternoon commute.