Mitigating the risk of developing in high-risk coal mining areas

Existing and proposed developments that are within coal mining areas are at risk of being located close to or above coal mine shafts and shallow underground workings that may collapse.

Any proposed developments in high-risk areas require a full Coal Mining Risk Assessment before the project can commence.

A database of recorded past and present coal mining activities is held by the Coal Authority.

A review of data relevant to a particular project will identify any potential risks.

The report that results from this assessment will contain a detailed analysis of the site, providing the design and contract teams with an accurate view of the potential risks, if any, on the project.

Our assessments include:

• Examination of Coal Authority’s Database
• A review of the historical, geotechnical and geological site data
• An evaluation of the project plans with the Coal Authority
• A risk assessment
• Recommendations for a suitable intrusive investigation to gain further insight into the potential risks