Planning and Local Authority Liaison

The Planning and Local Authority Liaison Department is the primary point of contact between the Coal Authority and Local Planning Authorities on all matters relating to the Coal Authority’s interests. We devise and manage the Coal Authority's involvement in the Planning Processes to ensure that full consideration is given to the safe, sustainable development with regard to the risks from the legacy of coal mining and that due regard is given to the future exploitation of coal reserves.

The Coal Authority is re-assessing the public safety risks associated with coal, and coal workings and is currently devising and piloting a more proactive and risk based approach to the Development Management processes and how the Coal Authority fulfils its duties as a statutory consultee.

• Check if your proposed development is at risk from coal mining activities

Until the pilot phase has been completed, a revision to the Standing Advice has been prepared and circulated to all coalfield Local Planning Authorities. The Revised Standing Advice which should continue to be inserted into all coalfield planning decision notices, is intended to give applicants/developers basic details of the potential hazards relating to coal mining and where further information can be found. It is the responsibility of an applicant/developer to be satisfied that their proposed development will not be adversely affected by any coal related issues. If they are in any doubt they should seek specialist advice or clarification / further information from the Coal Authority.

The Coal Authority is also now more actively participating in the Development Plan making processes across England, Scotland and Wales. The Coal Authority has been upgraded to a Specific Consultee Status in England since June 2008. The public safety risks associated with coal and coal working are being disseminated through the coalfield Development Plans together with reference to safeguarding coal resources where appropriate.

Contact Us

• e: planningconsultation@coal.gov.uk
• t: 01623 637 119

Useful Information

• Check if your proposed development is at risk from coal mining activities
• Coal Mining - Risk Identification Flowchart
• Do I need a Coal Mining Risk Assessment?
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Order a Development Stability Report
• Terms and Conditions

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