£1 million support for Coalsnaughton

A £1 million support package has been announced to support evacuated residents in Coalsnaughton.

People in 97 properties will be out of their homes for at least eight weeks after ground movement was discovered.

The money will be provided to Clackmannanshire Council, to help them cover expenses.

An investigation is currently underway by the Mining Remediation Authority.

Last week, First Minister John Swinney visited the area.

First Minister John Swinney said:

“I was grateful to hear from the residents of Coalsnaughton last week about the situation they have been placed in and understand the considerable stress this is causing.

“As residents will be out of their homes for at least eight weeks while the Mining Remediation Authority (MRA) carries out its investigations, this £1 million package will allow Clackmannanshire Council to provide support for them during this time.

“Ministers will continue to ensure the UK Government is pressing the MRA to expedite its investigations as quickly as possible to prevent further disruption to people’s lives.

“The Scottish Government is working closely with Clackmannanshire Council to support residents.”

Clackmannanshire Council Leader Ellen Forson said: “I welcome the Scottish Government’s commitment of up to £1 million to support Clackmannanshire Council’s response to the major incident in Coalsnaughton. This funding provides important reassurance that residents affected by this unprecedented situation will continue to receive the support they need while investigations are carried out.

"I would like to thank the First Minister and the Scottish Government for recognising the significant impact this incident has had on our community and for responding quickly to provide practical assistance. Their support will help the Council meet the significant costs of our emergency response, including temporary accommodation, welfare support and the additional resources required to assist affected residents.

"Above all, our focus remains on the people and families whose lives have been disrupted. We know this has been an incredibly difficult and uncertain time, and we will continue to work closely with all partners to ensure residents are supported and informed as this situation progresses.”