Six mining subsidence incidents reported in Flintshire since May 2022
Flintshire has experienced six mining-related subsidence incidents over the past 18 months, according to newly revealed data from the Coal Authority.
The statistics, obtained by our sister site Wrexham.com via a Freedom of Information (FOI) request, also show a total of 14 incidents across North East Wales, with the remaining eight occurring in Wrexham.
The figures highlight the impact of historic coal mining in Flintshire and Wrexham, which form part of North Wales’ former coalfield regions.
Other counties, including Anglesey, Conwy, Denbighshire, and Gwynedd, reported no incidents, reflecting their limited association with coal mining activities.
The Coal Authority, a UK public body, is tasked with addressing the legacy of the nation’s extensive coal mining history.
Its remit includes managing subsidence claims, mitigating hazards, and ensuring public safety.
In response to the FOI request, the Authority provided incident numbers but withheld specific details about the locations, dates, and repair costs of the cases. It directed those seeking further information to its paid reporting services.
A spokesperson for the Coal Authority stated: “The information on the exact location and date a claim or incident was reported, the nature of the incident, and the cost of repairs is contained within our mining reports service when purchasing a CON29M, or subsidence claim search.”
Legacy of Coal Mining in North East Wales
The concentration of subsidence incidents in Flintshire and Wrexham reflects the historical mining landscape of the region.
These areas were once hubs of coal extraction, with extensive underground networks that continue to pose risks to the surface long after mining operations ceased.
To address these challenges, the Coal Authority provides a range of services, including:
- Monitoring and repairing subsidence damage.
- Managing water pollution from abandoned mines.
- Mitigating hazards such as mine entries and surface collapses.
- Offering property and mining history reports for developers and homeowners.
The public can also use the Authority’s interactive map viewer to explore coalfield areas and understand the risks posed by mining legacies. Additionally, new data from the Mining Remediation Authority is now available through a recently launched online viewer.
Mitigating the Risks
Beyond responding to subsidence incidents, the Coal Authority works proactively to prevent future occurrences.
Efforts include identifying at-risk areas, addressing surface hazards, and collaborating with local communities to ensure safety.
The FOI findings highlight the ongoing impact of coal mining on communities in North East Wales, particularly in Flintshire and Wrexham.
While these incidents highlight the region’s industrial past, they also underline the importance of continued vigilance and mitigation to safeguard residents and property.
For more details on mining-related risks and services, the Coal Authority’s interactive tools and reporting options can be accessed via their website.
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