More than 20% of Cardiff properties at risk of ground movement

Detailed investigations by land search specialist Groundsure has revealed that nearly 45,000 homes in Cardiff could be at risk of significant ground movement.

The report, contained in its recently published White Paper, highlighted the extent of non-coal mining risks in major cities across the UK. The research identified thousands of properties in Cardiff that are potentially at risk. There are currently 238 mines, pits and quarries recorded in the area and this number is estimated to increase.

Wales has a well-documented history of coal mining, and homebuyers in the country will probably be familiar with these records. Less well known are other minerals that have been mined in areas such as Cardiff, which has a unique legacy in the mining of brick, tile and clay.

Cardiff has witnessed significant residential and commercial developments over recent decades. It is therefore easy to miss the risk posed by historic mining.

Many Cardiff mine records have little or no trace of historic workings. A prime example is the Lower Grangetown Brick Works, which are shown on early Ordnance Survey mapping, but with no mention of any quarries or mine workings. Yet an additional map that was created many years later in 1901 shows multiple clay pits.

Although ground collapses have previously been rare, the number of sinkholes and surface collapses nationwide are increasing. As many of Cardiff’s records are unclear, it underlines the importance for homebuyers and lenders to receive the most comprehensive set of historic land use data. If any mining data is missed, the potential risk to the property could be almost impossible to detect.

Groundsure is committed to not only spotting hazards but finding feasible solutions for the home buyer. Groundsure’s Mining team provides unique insight through detailed research into a quarry’s history.

Malcolm Smith, Chief Operating Officer at Groundsure, said:

“Recognising the location of potential undocumented mine workings ensures our consultants can make a clearer assessment of any ongoing or potential risk.

“It is crucial for conveyancers to thoroughly assess all previous mining activity for the homebuyer, so they have a comprehensive understanding of any potential mineral extraction in the area and any potential risk that may occur.”

To find out how Groundsure’s environmental search Avista can help homeowners identify potential ground hazards, visit: https://www.groundsure.com/avista.

To read the white paper, visit https://www.groundsure.com/hidden-hazards-press-release/.

To download the full case study, visit: http://groundsure-9336579.hs-sites.com/cardiff-case-study-pr.

Kindly shared by Groundsure

Main photo courtesy of Pixabay