The village of Coalsnaughton in Scotland continues to experience ground movement of up to 10mm per week, leaving evacuated families uncertain about when they can return home. The Mining Remediation Authority (MRA) confirmed that since the initial event in May, total movement has reached 345mm in Dunmoss View and 300mm in Benbuck View. Despite the ongoing risk, some residents have refused to evacuate, citing claims of misinformation from Clackmannanshire Council.
Evacuation and ongoing monitoring
On May 18, evidence of ground movement was discovered in Benbuck View, leading to the evacuation of dozens of homes. Sensors have been installed in some properties, including that of resident Lezley Creevy, who remains in her home in Langour. She stated, "It's not great. It is still not clear what is happening but I think it has stopped in our street. But we are putting in a formal complaint to the council over the misinformation they are giving us."
Political response and resident concerns
Brian Leishman, MP for Alloa and Grangemouth, described families as being "in limbo." He told The Scotsman, "The Mining Remediation Authority has still not determined the root cause of this, so the families are still in limbo. Temporary accommodation is the big issue at the moment." Keith Brown, MSP for Clackmannanshire and Dunblane, stated that evacuated residents are unlikely to return before Christmas and expressed belief that the cause is mining-related. He has written to UK Energy Minister Michael Shanks requesting a visit to the village.
Investigation and safety measures
The MRA is conducting an eight-week investigation, including camera scans, underground surveys, geophysics, and LiDAR surveys. Further drilling is scheduled at Benbuck View, Nechtan Drive, Dunmoss View, and The Glen. Carl Banton, chief operations director at the MRA, said, "Our thoughts remain with the residents affected and we would like to assure the community that we are doing all we can, as quickly as possible, alongside the local resilience partnership to understand the cause of this incident."
Council and community support
Nikki Bridle, chief executive of Clackmannanshire Council, confirmed that an update meeting was held on June 23 for affected residents. She stated, "The priority of all local resilience partners continues to be the safety and welfare of everyone involved. Our officers continue to work tirelessly to support residents during what we appreciate is an extremely worrying and uncertain time." The MRA noted that a quarter of British homes sit on or near former coalfields, but for the vast majority, the land is stable and safe.
