§ Mr. Georgeasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will estimate the extent of former ironstone mineworkings in the metropolitan district of Walsall; and what action Her Majesty's Government propose to take to seek to minimise the consequences.
§ Mr. MacfarlaneIronstone was mined in several areas in Walsall during the 19th century, often in association with coal and sometimes with limestone. The exact extent of former ironstone workings is not known. However, most such workings are at some depth, and it is likely that they are completely collapsed and pose little threat to surface development.
In contrast, limestone workings remain largely uncollapsed, and the area potentially affected by such underground workings in Walsall is approximately 370 hectares (about 3.5 per cent. of the borough's land area). Following completion of the study of limestone workings in the west midlands by Ove Arup and Partners, which was published in July 1983, Walsall borough council is currently undertaking intensive investigations, funded by my Department's derelict land grant, to resolve uncertainties and determine the need for treatment. The Black Country Limestone Advisory Panel, chaired by Sir Edward Parkes, will continue to advise my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State on priorities and value for money in relation to investigations and remedial measures, and funds will be made available for such further investigations and treatment as are considered necessary.