Colliery outfall pipe plan would prevent ‘catastrophic’ event

The Coal Authority has drawn up plans to prevent a “catastrophic” rising of mine water in Fife.

There is currently a temporary outfall pipe near the site of the defunct Michael Colliery in East Wemyss to dispose of rising mine water.

The Coal Authority is now preparing to submit plans for a permanent scheme which would prevent an “uncontrolled outbreak” of mine water which could damage properties.

In a letter to Fife Council, Coal Authority planning liaison officer Ashley Langrick said: “The main driver of the project is to continue to actively manage rising mine water and, in doing so, prevent an uncontrolled outbreak at an unknown location.

“Without the scheme the consequences of any outbreak on the built and natural environment would be both unpredictable and catastrophic.”

Prior notification of the development has been lodged with Fife Council.

The project would see the temporary long sea outfall pipeline replaced.

According to the plans, the outfall pipe would lie beyond the low water mark “to ensure that adequate dispersal and dilution of the mine water takes place without risk to the sensitive areas of the local environment.”

Also included in the scheme are underground pumps, rock armour and a new plant room and compound.

The Coal Authority said: “A mine water treatment scheme (MWTS) was previously built at the former Frances Colliery, which is located at Dysart.

“This MWTS collects and treats mine water prior to it being discharged into the Firth of Forth.

“This treatment scheme is currently working at full capacity.

“Due to the continued rising mine water trend additional pumping capacity not available at Frances is required.”

The scheme is likely to be passed under Permitted Development Rights, which enable the Coal Authority to carry out developments which ensure the safety of the land at or near disused mines.