Ground movement affecting Coalsnaughton homes is linked to coal mining

Residents evacuated from their homes in a Clackmannanshire village because of ground movement problems will receive UK government support after it was confirmed that the issue was linked to historic coal mining.

Those living in the 97 affected homes in Coalsnaughton will be given assistance, which could include their homes being purchased at full market value.

The announcement came ahead of a visit to the village by UK Energy Minister Michael Shanks, who warned there was “no quick fix” for the problem.

The findings follow a two-month investigation by the Mining Remediation Authority (MRA).

It said there were still signs of ground movement at the site and that investigations were continuing.

It said households would find out the outcome for their property, and the specific options available to them, in the coming weeks and months.

A total of 256 residents in four Coalsnaughton streets were moved out of their homes after ground movement was discovered in May.

The Department of Energy Security and Net Zero said that all evacuated residents would now be protected by the law, with the UK government meeting the costs of making homes safe.