Planning Permission Problems? A Coal Mining Risk Assessment Could Be the Missing Piece
If you’ve submitted a planning application and hit a roadblock from the local authority, it might not be due to your design or layout. One of the most common yet overlooked causes of planning delays is a missing or incomplete Coal Mining Risk Assessment.
In many parts of the UK, a history of underground coal mining activity means local authorities are obligated to ensure your proposed development won’t be affected by subsidence, gas emissions, or collapsing ground. That’s where a Coal Mining Risk Assessment (CMRA) comes in.
Let’s explore why this assessment is so crucial to securing planning approval—and how you can avoid delays.
What Is a CMRA and Why Do You Need One? 🧾
A Coal Mining Risk Assessment is a planning requirement in any area designated a “Coal Authority Development High-Risk Area.” It evaluates the potential impact of historical mining activity on a specific site and determines whether it is safe to proceed with construction.
🔎 Checks for old mine shafts and adits (tunnels)
🌬️ Assesses risks of mine gas emissions (e.g., methane or carbon dioxide)
🪨 Identifies potential for subsidence or unstable ground
📍 Recommends further site investigation or remediation, if necessary
Your application won’t progress without it if the site is located within a coalfield. In fact, planning officers will often delay validation of your application until you submit a compliant CMRA.
Is Your Site in a Coal Authority High-Risk Area? 🗺️
The Coal Authority provides mapping tools that show whether your plot of land falls into a risk zone. But identifying the risk is just the beginning—you still need a professional to interpret the data and write a planning-compliant report.
🏘️ New housing developments
🏢 Commercial builds
🔨 Extensions on older properties
🚧 Infrastructure installations like roads or pipelines
If you’re unsure, contact EnviroSolution. We’ll check your site location and advise if a Coal Mining Risk Assessment is required—fast, and with no hassle.
How a CMRA Helps Get Your Planning Application Approved ✅
Planning departments want reassurance that your development is safe from subsurface threats. A CMRA gives them exactly that.
💼 Professional reporting – The document is written in a technical, planning-friendly format
🧠 Expert analysis – Your site is reviewed by qualified geotechnical consultants
⏱️ Speedy submission – The sooner it’s submitted, the quicker your application moves forward
At EnviroSolution, we pride ourselves on delivering detailed, accurate CMRAs that meet council requirements the first time—no revisions, no delays.
What Happens if You Don’t Get a CMRA? 🛑
Skipping a CMRA or submitting a generic report is risky. Here’s what could happen:
📌 Planning rejection – Your application may be refused outright
📉 Devaluation of land – Unresolved subsidence or gas risks could lower your site’s market value
💷 Unexpected costs – Emergency investigations or remediation can add thousands to your budget
⚖️ Legal and liability issues – You could be held accountable for damages if hazards arise post-development
A small investment in a Coal Mining Risk Assessment can save you tens of thousands in the long run—and protect your project’s future.
Why Choose EnviroSolution for Your CMRA? 🌟
EnviroSolution offers industry-leading CMRA services for developers, homeowners, and architects across the UK.
📞 Responsive Team – Our experts are always on hand to answer your questions
📍 Site-specific Reports – No templates or generic output—we tailor each assessment to your exact location
📦 Complete Planning Support – From risk assessment to follow-up investigations, we’ve got you covered
🔗 Click here to start your Coal Mining Risk Assessment today and keep your project moving forward.
Conclusion: Don’t Let Planning Delays Derail Your Project 🚀
If your project is stuck in the planning stage, the missing puzzle piece might be underground. With historical coal mining posing real risks across the UK, local authorities are right to demand assessments—but that doesn’t mean it has to be difficult.
With EnviroSolution, getting a professional Coal Mining Risk Assessment is quick, painless, and guaranteed to meet planning expectations. Let’s clear the path for your planning approval and keep your build on track.
📞 Get in touch with our friendly team today or book your Coal Mining Risk Assessment directly online.