Dalkeith update: 23 January 2026
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we investigate the possible blockage in the Old Fordell tunnel and manage the underground mine water levels.
We have made good progress this week and we have installed the pumping equipment and a temporary pipeline. This is to enable us to start pumping the mine water along Lauder Road and into the River South Esk near Newmills Bridge. This will reduce the mine water levels that were rising in the underground workings.
Next week
The temporary lane closure will remain in place along part of Lauder Road and Newmills Road, closing the junctions at James Lean Avenue and Woodburn Road. Signage and diversions will be in place whilst this initial pipeline is in place. We apologise for any inconvenience and will continue to work with Midlothian Council to minimise disruption.
To support residents, we have appointed a Community Liaison Officer to handle questions and issues promptly and effectively. Sarah McDaid will start in this role on Monday 26 January, based at the Miners Welfare Club. We will provide more information about when and how you can contact Sarah in next week’s update.
We have spoken to our partners at Midlothian Council. They have confirmed that bin collections will take place as normal on Monday apart from Newmills Road flats. Residents of these properties will be contacted by the Council over the weekend about alternative arrangements.
Key Contacts
You can find further information about the current road closures on Midlothian Council’s website.
For questions about bin collections please contact Midlothian Council on 0131 561 5284 or by email at contactcentre@midlothian.gov.uk.
If you notice anything unusual, like water collecting where it shouldn’t, dips in the ground, or odd noises coming from underground, please call our 24-hour hazard line straight away on 0800 288 4242.
If you have any questions or concerns, would like to share feedback, or would like more information, please email our customer services team at customerservice@miningremediation.gov.uk or call 01623 637000.
Key contacts
Please contact us if there is anything you wish to discuss. The reference number for this project is I-391638.
Customer Services Team
If you have any questions about our work please call our customer services team on 0345 762 6848 or 01623 637 000 Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm or email us at customerservice@coal.gov.uk.
To report an emergency, please contact: 0800 288 4242 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) For more information about the Mining Remediation Authority, please visit www.gov.uk/mining-remediation-authority.