Walls have cracked and nearly 100 homes have been evacuated in a former mining village in Scotland after unexplained ground movement. Residents in Coalsnaughton, Clackmannanshire, were given just minutes to leave their properties as authorities ordered the evacuation of 28 homes on Nechtan Drive and nine on Langour, both streets near the historic coal mining site. This follows the earlier evacuation of 30 homes on Dunmoss View and another 30 on Benbuck View in recent weeks, after parts of those streets shifted dramatically.
Cause Under Investigation
Ground movement can occur near old mines when former caverns can no longer support the weight of the earth above. However, the exact cause of the movement in Coalsnaughton is not yet known. The village had a large coal mine during the Victorian era and into the 20th century, which was sealed in 1935. Authorities are now concerned that the mine could be collapsing.
Council Response
Nikki Bridle, chief executive of Clackmannanshire Council, stated that the evacuation was a precautionary measure carried out in a controlled manner. The Mining Remediation Authority (MRA) is investigating, but the process could take some time. Bridle confirmed that the total number of evacuated properties has reached 97 since May 18, 2026. She emphasized that the priority of all local resilience partners remains the safety and welfare of residents, with officers present to provide guidance and support during this worrying time.
Resident Experiences
Margo Brown, a resident of Dunmoss View, was evacuated last week and later allowed to return briefly with her family to collect personal items. She described the confusion, saying they received an email saying it was safe, only to be told 20 minutes later to evacuate immediately with just 10 minutes to leave. The community has rallied to support those affected, offering storage space, washing facilities, and hot water. The village primary school is also collecting donations for evacuees. While residents cannot return permanently, they may visit to retrieve belongings.
Security and Official Response
Police have fenced off the area to prevent unauthorized access. Scotland's Justice Secretary, Neil Gray, met with Ellen Forson, leader of Clackmannanshire Council, and local MSP Keith Brown on Friday. Gray stated that investigations by the MRA are ongoing to determine the source of the subsidence, and the findings are awaited.
