Daily investigations under way in village hit by ground movement, says Starmer

3 Jun 2026 • 8:40 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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Daily investigations under way in village hit by ground movement, says Starmer

Daily investigations are being carried out in a village affected by ground movement, the Prime Minister has said after residents were told they cannot return home for eight more weeks.

Around 100 homes have been evacuated in Coalsnaughton, Clackmannanshire, after concerns about unsafe structures.

The evacuations in the former mining village began on May 18 as an investigation took place into the ground movement.

Residents have now been told eight more weeks will be needed to establish the cause of the issue.

Brian Leishman, the Labour MP for Alloa and Grangemouth, raised the issue at Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday, saying those affected are suffering “emotional and financial distress”.

He asked if the UK Government will work with the Scottish Government to resolve the issue, and said affected residents should receive whatever support they need.

Sir Keir Starmer replied, saying: “I do know how difficult it is for residents who are not in their homes.

“Can I reassure him and them that the MRA (Mining Remediation Authority) are carrying out daily investigations to get answers as swiftly as possible.

“We’re also working with the council to provide support for residents.

“I can confirm the energy minister is in touch with MSPs.”

A joint statement by the Mining Remediation Authority and the local council was released on Wednesday.

Evacuations in Coalsnaughton began on May 18 (Alamy/PA)

It said: “As part of the continuing work to keep affected residents updated, partner organisations held an update meeting for those residents on Tuesday June 2.

“The priority of all local resilience partners continues to be the safety and welfare of everyone involved, our officers remain in the local area to provide guidance and support to residents during what we appreciate is a worrying and uncertain time.

“During the meeting, Carl Banton, our chief operations director, explained that work is continuing at pace to establish the cause of this incident.

“A further eight weeks will be needed for us to investigate the cause of the ground movement.

“Carl outlined the works that have been undertaken and shared images to help residents understand how the ground is moving.

“Our thoughts are with the residents affected by this incident, and we understand that this news will be concerning for them.”

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