Engineering geological considerations of the transitional authorization procedures for opencast coal mining in the United Kingdom

Abstract

Abstract This paper briefly describes the historical planning situation with regard to opencast coal mines in this country since the Defence General Regulations, 1939. More detailed clarification and discussion is devoted to the transitional arrangements for the authorization of opencast coal mining currently in operation since their formal adoption in March 1984. The over-riding requirement for the comprehensive scrutiny of applications with particular reference to the need for full engineering geological and geotechnical appraisals within the current planning framework for opencast coal operations is defined and discussed. The general methodology and constructional activities associated with the operation of opencast coal sites are described, together with the impact on the surrounding environment and the advantages connected with opencasting operations. Furthermore, the respective roles of both the Mineral Planning Authorites and British Coal (previously the National Coal Board) are discussed. Additionally, the general public’s opportunities to respond to opencasting issues, and the use of the public inquiry system in the context of opencast coal mining and the planning procedure are briefly discussed. Finally, conclusions are presented against the background of the current transitional authorization procedures for opencast coal sites. These conclusions deal with the requirement to establish, without delay, a new and effective legislative procedure and the need for a change in approach to site selection and design from the point of view of environmental impact. An urgent review of opencasting issues within the planning framework is recommended in order to establish coherent, flexible and acceptable guidelines against which sites can be designed, controlled and adjudged. Such a review would necessarily incorporate detailed environmental, engineering geological and geotechnical appraisals to assess the compatibility of proposed coal sites with the surrounding areas.