Dalkeith update: 20 February 2026

Update to our works at Old Fordell Tunnel

Thank you for your patience and understanding whilst our works continue to manage the underground mine water levels.

We have now removed the barrier along Newmills Road, bringing the lane closure to an end and restoring two‑way traffic. Temporary closures remain in place on James Lean Avenue and Woodburn Road, but we are making steady progress toward reopening them as soon as possible. We’ll share a further update as this work continues to move forward.

Our pumping operations are progressing well and reducing the water levels underground as anticipated. Whilst pumping using the temporary pipeline continues, we are actively developing options for a permanent solution to transport the mine water. Once we have more information, we will look to hold a further community meeting to share the details. We will continue to keep you informed as this work progresses.

Community meeting

We have now published the answers to the questions raised at the community meeting on 9 February. You can find a copy on our community page under ‘downloads’.

If you would prefer to receive a copy of the questions and answers by email or post, please contact our customer service team at customerservice@miningremediation.gov.uk or telephone 0345 762 6848

In response to community feedback, we have arranged for a letter drop to households across the wider area to ensure everyone remains informed about the latest updates regarding our works.

Community Liaison Officer

This week our Community Liaison Officer, Sarah McDaid, has been out and about speaking with residents. Sarah is available to speak with residents and help with any questions or concerns they may have.

Sarah will be available Monday 1-5pm, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 9-2pm.

You can make an appointment to meet Sarah in person by contacting her on: 07392318280 or email Sarah.McDaid@miningremediation.gov.uk. If you need assistance at other times, please contact our customer service team at customerservice@miningremediation.gov.uk or call 01623 637000.

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.

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@miningremediation.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.