Summersales and Down Brook Minewater Feasibility Studies

WYG were commissioned by The Coal Authority to conduct two feasibility studies into the means of controlling and treating mine water rising to the surface from two abandoned collieries situated near Wigan, Lancashire. Each study involved an investigation into the historical mining activities previously present in both areas. From this information it was possible to identify locations for drilling abstraction and monitoring boreholes. Following completion of the drilling work, contracts will be let for conducting pumping tests at each of the sites. During these pump tests observations will be made on the effectiveness of the abstraction point to prevent uncontrolled discharges. The tests will also determine how much mine water can be extracted from each borehole for treatment. This information will aid the detailed design of a proposed mine water treatment scheme at each site.