Regional study of the West Midlands area to locate old limestone mine workings

Abstract

Abstract The West Midlands of England has a long history of industrial production and attendant mineral extraction. With the decline in heavy industry, the region has suffered from the effects of dereliction arising from both surface and subsurface causes. The effects of surface dereliction are evident from the hundreds of hectares of land once occupied by factories and heavy industrial and manufacturing complexes, which now lie neglected. Subsurface dereliction arises from the risk of collapses within the abandoned mineral workings causing subsidence or collapse at the surface. This risk has affected many hectares of land, both industrial and residential and is restricting efforts to redevelop and regenerate the region. A recent initiative, led by the Department of Environment and the Black Country Boroughs of Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton has enabled the problems associated with old limestone workings to be studied over the past six years. The techniques used to locate the mines and assess the extent and condition of the workings are outlined. There are various ways for treating the workings and removing the problem. These options are constrained by technical, financial, environmental and political considerations.