The UK government has today, 27 July 2026, confirmed it will provide comprehensive support to residents of 97 evacuated homes in Coalsnaughton, Clackmannanshire, after the Mining Remediation Authority (MRA) concluded that recent ground movement in the area is directly linked to historic coal mining. This announcement follows an intensive eight-week investigation by the MRA, initiated after reports of subsidence in May led to the evacuation of properties to ensure public safety.
Under the new measures, the MRA will assume full responsibility for managing the incident response, with a primary focus on the safety and wellbeing of all affected residents. The UK government has pledged to reimburse the Scottish Government and Clackmannanshire Council for any incident response costs that fall within the MRA's remit. All evacuated residents will now be legally protected, with the government committed to meeting the costs associated with making homes safe. For properties that have sustained significant damage, a range of alternative support options will be made available, tailored to the specific condition of each home.
In cases of the most severe property damage, residents may be presented with an option for the government to purchase their home at its full market value as it stood prior to the incident. Additionally, further support for relocation will be provided if required. Energy Minister Michael Shanks is scheduled to visit Coalsnaughton to meet with affected residents, reiterating the government's commitment to delivering long-term solutions as swiftly as possible. Households are expected to receive details on their property's outcome and specific support options in the coming weeks and months, pending ongoing investigations.
Minister Shanks stated, "This has obviously been an extremely difficult situation for families over the past few months, and I want to reassure all those affected that no one will be left to shoulder the burden alone. The UK government stands ready to do everything within our power to support those households affected, working side by side with the Scottish Government and Clackmannanshire Council." He acknowledged that there is "no quick fix" but emphasised the MRA's provision of tailored advice and support to each household, with the goal of providing long-term certainty as quickly as possible.
The MRA has already contacted all affected households today to implement immediate support and outline the next steps based on individual circumstances. This includes close collaboration with Clackmannanshire Council and local partners to address immediate needs, such as securing appropriate temporary accommodation. Each household will be assigned a dedicated Community Support Account Manager by the MRA, who will guide them through the process for as long as necessary. Residents can also access information via a dedicated website, a community helpline, or by visiting a community hub established in Coalsnaughton.