Dudley Council is set to rule on a planning application for a block of six flats on a vacant plot of land on Douglas Road, currently occupied by a derelict building. The triangular 0.2-acre site sits behind houses on Lloyd Street and Prospect Row in a part of the Black Country designated as high risk by the Coal Authority due to extensive historic mining.
Proposed Development Details
The application seeks permission for a two-storey block comprising four one-bedroom flats and two studio flats, along with parking for eight vehicles and a communal garden. A statement supporting the application reads: "The development seeks to make efficient and high-quality use of under-utilised urban land, contributing to local housing supply in a sustainable location within the existing settlement boundary. The building has been carefully designed to respond to the surrounding residential context."
Coal Mining Risk Assessment
A survey identified eight historic mine entries within 20 metres of the development or site boundary. A report from David Bellis Consulting Surveyors noted: "Very old shallow workings are present and further settlement is possible however the possibility is remote." The report added that a full coal mining risk assessment will likely be required before construction begins.
A separate report from Groundsure Location Intelligence indicated that the building itself does not fall within the zone of influence of mine entries and should not be impacted by subsidence. However, it acknowledged a small risk to some areas of the site near old mine entry points. The Groundsure report stated: "In the event of damage resulting from subsidence or settlement of this mine entry, property owners can make a claim against the mine owner or responsible person (usually the Coal Authority) under the provisions of the Coal Mining Subsidence Act 1991."
Conclusion
The council's decision on the application will consider the housing benefits against the geological risks. The site's location within the settlement boundary supports sustainable development, but the proximity to historic mine workings requires careful mitigation.
