30,000 tonnes of material excavated during work to extinguish underground fire in Coatbridge

Around 30,000 tonnes of material has been excavated as part of a seven-month battle to extinguish an underground fire in Coatbridge.

North Lanarkshire Council has been coordinating the “hugely challenging” operation in the wooded embankment behind Burleigh Street since July, when oil shale, used to build a railway embankment in the 19th century, caught fire.

After months of smouldering, the council says it is now confident that the burning has been extinguished.

In recent weeks, demolition of a historic railway weighbridge has been completed safely as part of work to restore the embankment.

The fire broke out at a site behind a number of homes STV News

Work has also begun on benching and clay reinstatement of the embankment using specialist machinery.

Local residents have been warned that dust could still arise from the site.

It comes as those living near the site called for the council to cover the costs of clearing up the dust and soot left blanketing their gardens and homes.

Glasgow & West

‘We shouldn’t have to pay’: Residents call for clear-up help after underground fire

North Lanarkshire Council has been battling the fire at the coal tip on Burleigh Street since July

Isabella Meechan told STV News: “We’re left with all the mess. I’m hoping they’ll help us clear it up.

“When you’ve been outside, the soles of your shoes are black. All the windows, the close, inside the bins, inside my shed. Everything is covered in the stuff.

“We deserve compensation. I’ve put a lot of work into painting my garden, but there’s no way I can get through all this on my own.

“I will need to hire someone, so it will cost me money.

Gardens have been left covered in soot and dust STV News

However, North Lanarkshire Council has said it is not liable for any remedial clean-up or damage.

Speaking on the latest update, a spokesperson said: “This progress so far has only been possible thanks to a strong multi-agency response, with the council working closely alongside specialist contractors and geotechnical experts, including WSP and Hochtief, as well as NHS Lanarkshire and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, all playing a vital role throughout this complex operation.

Locals have called for help with the clear-up STV News

“We have hugely appreciated the understanding, patience and support shown by residents and local elected members throughout this complex first phase.

“Safety remains our priority, and we would remind residents to continue following the health and safety guidance in place as the next stage of remediation continues.”