Building on Coalfields? Here’s Why a Coal Mining Risk Assessment is Non-Negotiable
Are you planning to develop property in an area with a history of coal mining? Whether you’re building homes, commercial units, or infrastructure, it’s critical that you understand the risks lurking below the surface. The UK’s long-standing coal mining legacy has left a complex underground network that can pose serious threats to modern development.
Before you lay a single brick, ensure you have a professional Coal Mining Risk Assessment in place. It’s more than a planning requirement—it’s your project’s insurance policy against disaster.
The Legacy of Coal Mining in the UK 🇬🇧⛏️
Coal was once the lifeblood of Britain’s economy, fuelling industries and homes for over two centuries. However, with that prosperity came thousands of mines—many shallow, undocumented, and poorly backfilled. These mines now lie beneath the surface of towns and villages throughout the country.
🗺️ Over 11% of UK properties are within coalfield areas
⚠️ More than 170,000 mine entries are recorded
🧱 Unstable ground can lead to catastrophic structural failures
This is why planning authorities in designated coalfield zones require a Coal Mining Risk Assessment as part of the development application process.
What Is a Coal Mining Risk Assessment? 🤔
A Coal Mining Risk Assessment (CMRA) is a comprehensive report prepared by geotechnical or environmental consultants. It identifies the likelihood of past mining activity affecting the safety and viability of a development.
The assessment typically includes:
📜 Review of Coal Authority data – Past mining records, shaft locations, and subsidence history
🌐 GIS Mapping – Overlay of mine data with your site boundaries
🧪 Ground condition assessment – Including potential gas emissions and subsidence risks
🛠️ Mitigation strategy – Recommendations for further site investigation or remedial action
If risks are found, the CMRA outlines exactly what you need to do to proceed safely—and in compliance with planning requirements.
Who Needs a CMRA? 🏗️
You’ll likely need a CMRA if your proposed site falls within a Coal Authority Development High-Risk Area. The most common projects that trigger a CMRA requirement include:
🏡 New residential builds
🏢 Commercial property developments
🔨 Large-scale renovations or extensions
🚧 Infrastructure projects like roads, pipelines, and bridges
Even small-scale developments can be affected. It’s not about the size of your project—it’s about what lies underneath.
Want to find out if your site is in a high-risk area? Contact EnviroSolution for a quick screening and expert advice on next steps.
Risks of Ignoring a Coal Mining Risk Assessment ❗
Skipping a CMRA might seem like a shortcut—but it can lead to expensive and dangerous outcomes.
📉 Delays in Planning – Councils often refuse or delay planning applications lacking a proper CMRA
💷 Unexpected Costs – Mid-project discoveries of mine shafts or weak ground can result in expensive remediation
🏚️ Building Failure – Poorly assessed sites can experience ground collapse, causing irreparable damage
🚫 Legal and Insurance Issues – Failing to assess and manage risks can void warranties and insurance claims
Don’t let your investment go up in smoke. A professional Coal Mining Risk Assessment from EnviroSolution keeps your project on solid ground.
Why Choose EnviroSolution? 💼
At EnviroSolution, we bring years of geotechnical experience to every project. Our CMRA service is fast, compliant, and backed by industry experts.
⏳ Fast Turnaround – Get your report when you need it—no delays, no excuses
📘 Planning-Friendly Reports – Our reports are designed to meet the exact requirements of planning officers
🧠 Expert Team – Our consultants are here to guide you through every stage of the process
🔗 Get Started Here – Book your Coal Mining Risk Assessment today
Final Word: Secure Your Foundations Before You Build 🏡
You wouldn’t build a house without surveying the land first—so why risk building over unstable ground?
Whether you’re a homeowner, property developer, or architect, a Coal Mining Risk Assessment is your first line of defence against unexpected subsurface hazards. With EnviroSolution, you get clarity, speed, and peace of mind.
Contact us today for your expert Coal Mining Risk Assessment and build with confidence from the ground up.