Chalk mine review in Hatfield
This section details why the chalk mine review of Hatfield took place, the result of the study and what it may mean to you are a homeowner or business in Hatfield.
The project plan
The long term outcome for both councils is to remove the risk of chalk mines in the areas and protect the future growth and prosperity of Hatfield.
Constant monitoring of areas
The data from the map has now been added to the two council’s Geographical Information Systems. Both systems will be constantly reviewed and updated when new evidence presents itself – whether it is elimination of risk when ground studies occur or when subsidence is recorded.
Reviewing areas over a phased basis
Both councils (Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council and Hertfordshire County Council) will now look at each area in turn, starting with the areas with the greatest likelihood, to determine what needs to be done. The owners and occupiers of buildings identified in the probable chalk mine workings areas will be contacted individually at this time and given regular updates on the progress of the project so they can take appropriate action.
This process for reviewing all areas will take a number of years as ground investigations, pursuing funding and remediation work if required, can be complex and time consuming. However both councils are already in talks with English Partnerships about funding for further investigations in the high or very high probability areas.
As further investigations are undertaken and more information is gathered it is expected that the marked areas on the map will reduce in size.
Investigations that have already occurred in Hatfield
Investigations in Briars Lane proved that chalk mining had occurred. Remediation work will mean that any risk of subsidence will be eliminated by the end of 2008.
Investigations also took place at the old Forum in Lemsford Road. No evidence of chalk mining activity was found and construction commenced on the affordable housing scheme in 2007.