UK Government reimburses costs for Coalsnaughton evacuation

The Mining Remediation Authority (MRA) confirmed that historic coal mining caused ground movement in Coalsnaughton, prompting the evacuation of 97 homes. The UK government will reimburse all expenses incurred by the Scottish Government and Clackmannanshire Council for the emergency response, including temporary housing, welfare and staffing costs.

Energy Minister Michael Shanks pledged long‑term solutions for affected households, stating that no family will be left to shoulder the burden alone. Residents whose properties suffered severe damage may be offered full‑market‑value purchases and additional relocation support. Housing Secretary Shirley‑Anne Somerville also highlighted further funding to support the local authority’s response, which will be offset by the MRA’s reimbursement.

The MRA has taken over incident management, engaging directly with displaced residents to provide specialist assistance and outlining options that will be communicated in the coming weeks and months.