Mining for Solutions: How the Coal Authority Collaborates with Local Authorities with Lisa Pinney

Lisa Pinney MBE has been the Chief Executive at the Coal Authority since June 2018. Prior to this role, she spent 20 years at the Environment Agency, where she served as the Director of the West Midlands Area.Lisa is passionate about diversity and inclusion and was awarded an MBE for her work in 2014. Additionally, Lisa serves as the chair of the Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust, a board member of the Association of Chief Executives, and an advisory board member of the Ausurus Group (European Metal Recycling Ltd).Today we discussed, the opportunity of mine water heat and what the Coal Authority are doing to enable it and work with local authorities (for example the successful Gateshead scheme) to make this happen across GB. We also explored the work the Coal Authority does with local authorities and other LRF partners on emergency response, public safety and subsidence in particular (also Tip safety) and how we support as a statutory consulted in planning.Key questions covered in the interview:Mine Water Heat:How does the Coal Authority collaborate with local authorities to promote mine water heat utilisation?Can you share any specific examples of successful projects, like the Gateshead scheme, that demonstrate the potential of mine water heat across Great Britain?What challenges or barriers exist in implementing mine water heat initiatives, and how is the Coal Authority addressing them?Emergency Response and Public Safety:What role does the Coal Authority play in emergency response coordination with local authorities and other partners?How do you ensure public safety in areas affected by subsidence or other mining-related issues?Could you elaborate on the measures taken to enhance tip safety and prevent incidents?Statutory Consultation in Planning:How does the Coal Authority contribute to the planning process as a statutory consultee?What criteria or considerations guide your input during planning consultations?Are there any recent examples where the Coal Authority’s involvement influenced planning decisions positively?