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Earth Science Partnership

Coal Mining Risk Assessment, Walsall

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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Get in touch with our team via our email, enquiries@earthsciencepartnership.com or phone number, 02920 813385  and we’ll be very happy to help with and discuss any geotechnical engineering project requirements you may have.

For a full list of all ESP capabilities, please click here.

 

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Simon Lewis
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Earth Science Partnership recently completed an independent geo-environmental review for us and I have been extremely impressed with both the quality of their work and the professionalism of the team. The report was comprehensive, balanced and technically robust, helping us navigate a complex evidence base and identify the key issues requiring further consideration. Just as importantly, ESP were approachable and willing to engage constructively with questions arising from the draft report. Special thanks to Daniel Thomas for his time, patience and willingness to explain technical matters in a way that non-specialists could understand. It was clear throughout that the focus was on objective, evidence-led analysis rather than simply telling a client what they wanted to hear. A highly professional consultancy and one I would most happily recommend. Simon Lewis : Secretary : Nant-Y-Calch Conservation Group
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Barbara
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Earth Science Partnership has helped us immensely through a , long, stressful and complex situation following a major leak under our property. We had the absolute pleasure of working with Giles Sommerwill, who was with us every step of the way. He helped us to understand the geological conditions and ramifications following such a major leak, and then informed and advised us during the process of agreeing a remedial solution with the water company, as well as helping us address other issues that arose over time. Giles is experienced, knowledgeable and highly qualified. We could not have hoped to work with anyone more professional, reliable or kind. We also felt that Giles was genuinely concerned, not just about our property, but about our well-being. Thanks to him, we highly recommend, and praise, Earth Science Partnership.
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Roberta Morgan
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Having used the services of Earth Science Partnership on two previous occasions, we had no reservations about employing them for a third time. They are very professional and produce excellent detailed reports on what they are able to do. They are prepared to listen to everything you require and would highly recommend them.
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Joshua Pike
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ESP undertook some thorough CMRA (Coal Mining Risk Assessment) works for our site. They showed a surprising level of knowledge into the historical mining methods and establishment of mining sites. Prompt and in-depth reporting and great communication, would definitely recommend.
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Duncan Phillips
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Great client to deal with!
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Keri Beal
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Great communication, excellent prompt service.
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Oliver Stacey
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ESP have done some excellent GI works for me and produced some excellent in depth reports for our client (Network Rail)

Speak To Our Experts Today

Earth Science Partnership is a leading geoenvironmental and geotechnical expert, delivering a comprehensive range of specialist services across Wales, England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland. We have decades of combined experience in our team of industry-recognised experts.

Our work, for homeowners, land owners, developers, and investors is completed in compliance with the latest, relevant industry best practices and guidance. We understand that every project is unique, so we deliver our services tailored to your needs.

Whether you require initial site investigation, complex hazard engineering, or comprehensive environmental impact assessments, the ESP team can support you with a straightforward, cost-effective solution for any stage of your asset development.