Mining-induced fault reactivation in the UK

Faults are susceptible to reactivation during coal mining subsidence. The effects may be the generation of a scarp along the ground surface that may or may not be accompanied by associated ground deformation including fissuring or compression. Reactivated faults vary considerably in their occurrence, height, length and geometry. Some reactivated faults may not be recognizable along the ground surface, known only to those who have measured the ground movements or who are familiar with the associated subtle ground deformations. In comparison, other reactivated faults generate scarps up to several metres high and many kilometres long, often accompanied by widespread fissuring of the ground surface. Mining subsidence-induced reactivated faults have caused damage to roads, structures and land. The objective of this chapter is to provide a general overview of the occurrence and characteristics of fault reactivation in the UK.