Intrusive Coal Mining Investigations

If a site is found to be situated within a ‘Development High Risk’ area then a desk-based CMRA is required. If this CMRA identifies a potential risk of unrecorded mine workings, historical opencast mine workings, or mine shafts that could affect the proposed development, then an Intrusive Investigation would be required.

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If there is an identified risk of possible unrecorded mine workings beneath the site, then typically Rotary Open Hole Boreholes are carried out, whereby a number of boreholes are drilled to depths up to 40.0m below ground level. Throughout drilling these boreholes, our experienced drillers and engineers will be able to identify whether or not there are any coal seams present and whether there is any evidence of voids or mine workings. If upon completion of the Intrusive Works, there is no evidence of mine workings within the boreholes, then no further works would be required. However, if upon drilling these boreholes there was evidence of mine workings beneath the site, then suitable remedial measures would be necessary.

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If a mine shaft or historical opencast workings are mapped on or close to the site, then a typical method for investigating these features is machine excavating shallow trial pits across a large area. This will enable us to identify any evidence of disturbed ground which could be associated with a mine shaft or opencast workings. If opencast workings are encountered, then additional works may be necessary to help identify the extent of the opencast mining area.

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Upon completion of these Intrusive Works, we will compile a report, piecing together all of the information obtained during the Investigation. This report will summarise the findings of the Investigation and give recommendations as to whether remedial measures will be required or not and what type of foundations or other measures will be necessary.

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