About us
The Coal Authority makes a better future for people and the environment in mining areas.
The Coal Authority manages the effects of past coal mining, including subsidence damage claims which are not the responsibility of licensed coal mine operators. It deals with mine water pollution and other mining legacy issues.
It also owns, on behalf of the country, the majority of the coal in Britain, and licenses coal mining.
We use our skills to provide services to other government departments and agencies, local governments and commercial partners.
We contribute to the delivery of the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy and the environmental, social and economic priorities of the UK, Scottish and Welsh Governments.
By sharing our knowledge and expertise we support them, and our partners, to create cleaner, greener nations for us all.
Who we are
Most of our staff are based in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire. We also have regional engineers based in the coalfield areas of Britain so we can respond quickly to mining safety issues wherever they occur.
Our purpose
Our purpose is to:
- keep people safe and provide peace of mind
- protect and enhance the environment
- use our information and expertise to help people make informed decisions
- create value and minimise cost to the taxpayer
Our responsibilities
We’re responsible for:
- licensing coal mining in Britain
- managing the safety issues that have resulted from years of coal mining
- dealing with water pollution caused by historical coal mining
- communicating information to the public
- making our information available so that informed decisions can be made
Our values
Trusted
- we act with integrity
- we’re open and transparent
- we deliver on our commitments
Inclusive
- we promote a culture of mutual respect
- we recognise that our differences make us stronger
- we work with others to achieve our mission
Progressive
- we’re open minded and innovative
- we recognise that the past can help us shape the future
- we listen and learn
Corporate information
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Read about the types of information we routinely publish in our Publication scheme. Our Personal information charter explains how we treat your personal information. Find out About our services.