Fears filled-in Yorkshire coal mine is polluting soil

-Credit:LDRS
-Credit:LDRS


Fears contaminants such as glass and plastic are polluting the soil has prompted an Environment Agency investigation.

An EA spokesperson confirmed that an inspection was carried out at the former Maltby Colliery by its staff in December. It is investigating the materials used to fill the former Maltby Colliery as part of a restoration scheme

The investigation focused on the nature of the final surface restoration material, including Compost Like Output (CLO), and that the investigation into the correct classification of this material is ongoing.

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This follows increasing worries from local councillors and residents about the quality of CLO being applied to the land in efforts to reclaim the former coal mining site. During the last full council meeting of Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council, Maltby councillor Adam Tinsley expressed that residents had significant health and safety concerns about the material used at the site.

He urged the Environment Agency, which has authorised the soil restoration, to investigate the materials used. A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: "Maltby Colliery is covered by an Environmental Permit issued by the Environment Agency. The permit authorises the restoration of colliery spoil, with wastes that conform to waste acceptance procedures.

"In December 2024 we undertook site inspections focusing on the nature of the final surface restoration material, including Compost Like Output (CLO). Our investigation into the correct classification of this material is ongoing.

"Additionally, we are working with the operator to make sure the risk assessments and procedures are appropriate and pollution to the environment is prevented."

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