'No clear timescale' on works after Coalsnaughton evacuation

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There is “no clear timescale” on how long works will take after evidence of ground movement was discovered in Coalsnaughton.

Residents of 30 homes in Benbuck View were evacuated on Monday night.

Some of those forced to leave their private properties were taken in by family members, with others gathering at Devonvale Hall which was closed after alternative accommodation was found.

Benbuck View. (Image: Kayleigh Gregory)

Clackmannanshire Council were assisted by firefighters along with Police Scotland.

Now, the council has revealed that there is currently no clear timescale on how long work will take in the area.

Both council workers and the Citizens Advice Bureau are at Devonvale Hall again today (Wednesday) to offer support to those who need it.

Devonvale Hall. (Image: Alexandra Baff)

Clackmannanshire Council said: “The council appreciates this is a worrying time for the residents from this private estate and our officers are at Devonvale Hall again today for residents who need further guidance.

“This includes offering support to the residents as they navigate next steps, which will include contacting their insurers.

“Citizens Advice Bureau will also be on site from 3pm today.

“We are working alongside our partners following this incident and investigations with our partners, including the Mining Remediation Authority, are continuing onsite.

“At this early stage, we have no clear timescale on how long this work is going to take.”

Yesterday, Keith Brown MSP also expressed his concern at the incident.

Keith Brown MSP. (Image: PA)

He said: “The safety and wellbeing of all residents must be the absolute priority at this time. This will have been a frightening and deeply unsettling experience for the families who were evacuated from their homes.

“I want to thank the emergency services, Clackmannanshire Council, council officers and the Mining Remediation Authority for the swift and professional response to ensure residents were evacuated safely and supported appropriately.

“It is reassuring that no-one was injured and that accommodation was quickly found for those affected.

“Investigations into the cause of the ground movement are ongoing, with the Mining Remediation Authority carrying out further assessment work.

“Residents will understandably have many questions about what has happened and what the coming days may bring, and it is important they continue to receive clear information and support throughout this process.

“I will be following developments closely and will continue to work with all relevant agencies.

“My office and I remain available to assist residents in whatever way we can during this worrying time.”

Brian Leishman, MP for Alloa and Grangemouth, also met with the Mining Remediation Authority yesterday.

He added: "My team are on hand to help and if anyone needs to contact our office, please do so".

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