Further homes in the former mining village of Coalsnaughton, Clackmannanshire, have been evacuated as an ongoing investigation into significant ground movement continues. Clackmannanshire Council confirmed that dangerous building notices were issued for an additional six properties last Friday, bringing the total number of residents displaced to 256. The widespread evacuations began after ground instability was first identified in May.
The Mining Remediation Authority (MRA) informed the council last month that the ground movement in areas such as Dunmoss View and Benbuck View was showing "no signs of stopping," with weekly shifts recorded between 2mm and 10mm. While a direct link to a former mine is widely suspected, the MRA has yet to officially confirm the cause. More information on the root of the movement is anticipated in the coming weeks.
Residents are currently housed in a variety of temporary accommodations, including housing association properties, private rentals – some through platforms like Airbnb – and student residences in Stirling. Many fear they will be unable to return to their homes for several more months, with some expressing concerns that a number of properties may ultimately require demolition. The MRA has stated that monitoring of the site will continue for six months after the ground has stabilised, and residents will not be permitted to return before the full investigation concludes.
A spokesperson for Clackmannanshire Council acknowledged the profound impact on affected residents, stating, "We recognise this is a worrying time for the affected residents and we will engage directly with them to ensure they receive clear information and support." The council's actions have been taken under the Building (Scotland) Act 2003, following detailed inspections and professional advice from structural engineers who identified defects posing a potential risk to public safety.
The situation represents the largest ongoing local emergency faced by Clackmannanshire, Scotland's smallest mainland council. In response to the escalating crisis, the Scottish Government confirmed a £1 million funding package in June. This financial assistance is intended to help the council cover essential expenses, including temporary housing, welfare provisions, and additional staffing costs associated with managing the emergency.