Previous investigation identified mine workings up to 1.4m height in the 2.3m thick Seven Feet seam within 10m of the site surface and the potential for workings in the Deep Rider seam at greater depth.
An outline strategy for stabilisation of the workings by drilling and grouting was prepared for the Client as part of our Coal Mining Risk Assessment – given the shallow depth of the workings, this included for the development infrastructure as well as the individual dwellings.
No mine entries were recorded within the site boundary, however, given the extensive history of workings within the Warwickshire Coalfield (dating from medieval times) and the shallow depth of the coal the potential for ‘bell pit’ workings was identified, which are seldom recorded.
The Client was advised of a suitable course of action to mitigate the risks of the workings.
This project was one of many we have undertaken in coalfields across the UK, using our decades of experience and good understanding of historical mining and mine workings to benefit the Client in understanding the risks associated with development in past mining areas, and facilitating progress within the planning regime.
