Residents of the former mining village of Coalsnaughton in Clackmannanshire have been told they will remain evacuated for at least another eight weeks due to ongoing ground movement. Around 100 properties were evacuated on 18 May after concerns over unsafe structures in the area.
The Mining Remediation Authority (MRA) and local council issued a joint statement on Wednesday confirming that further investigations are needed to determine the cause of the subsidence. Carl Banton, the MRA's chief operations director, explained that work is continuing at pace but that an additional eight weeks will be required.
The plight of the displaced residents was raised in Parliament by Brian Leishman, the Labour MP for Alloa and Grangemouth. He told Prime Minister’s Questions that those affected are suffering “emotional and financial distress” and called for collaboration between the UK and Scottish Governments to ensure residents receive support.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer responded, saying: “I do know how difficult it is for residents who are not in their homes. Can I reassure him and them that the MRA are carrying out daily investigations to get answers as swiftly as possible. We’re also working with the council to provide support for residents.”
Scottish Justice Secretary Neil Gray said he has written to the UK Government’s Energy Secretary to urge that investigations be carried out as quickly as possible. He described the situation as “very distressing” and stressed the MRA’s “absolute responsibility and moral obligation” to act swiftly.
