First Minister to visit Coalsnaughton

The First Minister is visiting Coalsnaughton today.

People in 97 properties will be out of their homes for at least eight weeks while an investigation is underway.

He'll chair a roundtable meeting, before meeting local residents.

Speaking ahead of the visit, Mr Swinney said:

“This is a very distressing situation for the residents of Coalsnaughton who have had to leave their homes with no clear indication of when they might be able to return. I understand the urgency of resolving this issue at the earliest possible opportunity so people can get their lives back on track, and I welcome the opportunity to hear about the work being done to support them.

“Whilst it is necessary that the Mining Remediation Authority carries out safety investigations, people are understandably concerned about the length of time this might take. It is absolutely critical that they are provided with clear communication and  further clarity as soon as possible on what will happen in the coming weeks.

“Given the UK Government has responsibility for the Authority, the Justice Secretary Neil Gray has also written to the UK Energy Secretary to ensure he is doing everything possible to see that investigations are carried out as quickly as possible.

“The Scottish Government will continue to meet regularly with Clackmannanshire Council to provide support where and when it is required.”