We were engaged to assist with the proposed redevelopment of an existing warehouse facility in Darlaston. Our work included a comprehensive Phase One Coal Mining Risk Assessment to evaluate the potential risks posed by past mine workings on the proposed development.
The site is located within an area of extensive historical coal mining activity, where the Pennine Middle Coal Measures bedrock contains multiple coal seams including the economically important “Thick Coal” seam.
Our desk study revealed a complex mining legacy dating back to the 1870’s, with evidence of significant industrial activity in the wider area.
The site presented significant challenges due to its location within a Development High Risk Area, with recorded shallow coal mine workings and multiple mine entries impacting the site. The site geology proved particularly challenging, with Made Ground (mainly colliery spoil) overlying Glacio-fluvial deposits, which in turn overlie the Coal Measures bedrock. The presence of the Landsfield Fault crossing the southern site boundary added further complexity to the geological model.
Our recommendations included a phased approach comprising:
- Detailed site inspection for evidence of mine shafts and instability.
- Structural survey of the existing building.
- Intrusive investigation, including rotary drilling to confirm the extent of shallow mine workings.
- Comprehensive ground gas assessment following CL:AIRE good practice guidance.
- Potential geophysical surveys or trial trenching depending on site inspection findings.
The combination of shallow recorded workings, probable unrecorded workings, proximate mine entries, and underlying coal seams created a complex risk profile requiring detailed intrusive investigation. The resulting assessment provided clear guidance on the mining hazards present and established a framework for safe development through appropriate investigation and remediation measures.
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