Spoil heap leachate remediation: some social considerations

This paper discusses the challenges associated with the remediation of waste waters from abandoned coal mines in the UK, focusing on social considerations outlined in legislative frameworks aimed at protecting the environment. The objective is to analyze the roles of regulatory bodies, such as the Coal Authority and the Environment Agency, in prioritizing polluted watercourses through Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA). Employing a qualitative methodology, the authors examine the exclusion of spoil heap drainage from the national remediation strategy, highlighting the responsibilities of local landowners and authorities. Results indicate that while spoil heaps are viewed as problematic brown-field sites necessitating hard end use assessments, they also present potential contributions to local identity, biodiversity, and heritage. The study emphasizes the need for a shift in perspectives towards these landscapes to include public participation and community engagement in remediation efforts. It explores both theoretical and practical considerations surrounding community stakeholder involvement, advocating for a more integrated approach that aligns immediate regulatory challenges with long-term environmental solutions.