Methane and other gases from disused coal mines: the planning response

This study was carried out on the recommendations of a 1995 study entitled: `The review of the significance of `natural` contamination to planning and development in Great Britain` which highlighted surface emissions of mine gas as a potential hazard. The study aimed to: establish the quantitative and temporal significance of surface gas emissions from abandoned coal mines; investigate the influence of water levels in mines and of pressure fluctuations on emissions of gases; summarise the responsibilities and liabilities of various parties in respect of surface methane emissions from abandoned coal workings; establish the extent to which procedures for planning of land use and control of development can be used to reduce risks; and establish the detail of information needed to make sound planning and control decisions. A series of recommendations are made in the report, the fundamental one being that formal planning guidance should be issued to ensure that mine gases are properly considered at the planning stage of developments. It is proposed that the existing Planning Policy Guidance Note 14 (PPG 14) in development on unstable land be extended to incorporate guidance on planning controls on land subject to surface emission of mine gases as a result of past mining activities. The report is issued in two volumes - `Summary` and `Technical report`. 73 refs., 23 figs., 10 tabs., 6 apps.