Claim adbee828Checked 21 Jul 2026
TrueOn the truth scale
“The situation is difficult for residents who are not in their homes.”
—Keir StarmerLabourThe Prime Minister·Engagements·03 Jun 2026Factual · historical current chronological
Reasoning & Evidence21 Jul 2026
The claim refers to the situation in Coalsnaughton, Clackmannanshire, where approximately 97–100 properties were evacuated starting on 18 May 2026 due to dangerous ground movement in the former mining village. Residents were told they could not return home for at least another eight weeks while the Mining Remediation Authority (MRA) investigated the cause. The evidence strongly supports the claim that the situation is difficult for these displaced residents:
1. **Residents are not in their homes**: Multiple sources confirm that residents of 97 properties across four streets were evacuated and are staying in temporary accommodation — with family, in private rentals including Airbnbs, or even in student residences in Stirling (BBC News).
2. **The situation is difficult**: Scottish Justice Secretary Neil Gray described the situation as "very distressing" for residents. Clackmannanshire Council called it a "worrying and uncertain time." The Scotsman described the community as being "at breaking point." Residents reported experiencing "emotional and financial distress." Some fear their homes may need to be demolished and may never be able to return. The council formally requested financial support from the Scottish Government, and a £1 million support package was later confirmed.
The claim is a general empathetic observation, and all available evidence confirms that the evacuation, prolonged displacement, and uncertainty have indeed made the situation difficult for the affected residents.
Sources: BBC News — "Coalsnaughton ground movement probe to take another two months" (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cze27lpjnr6o); BBC News — "More homes evacuated in Coalsnaughton ground movement probe" (https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clye0dy72x3o); The Independent — "Coalsnaughton: Residents of former mining village face eight weeks away from home" (https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/prime-minister-keir-starmer-uk-government-scottish-government-grangemouth-b2988751.html); The Scotsman — "'A community at breaking point': Inside the Coalsnaughton evacuations" (https://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/a-community-at-breaking-point-inside-the-coalsnaughton-evacuations-8660116)
From speech
I know how difficult it is for residents who are not in their homes. I can reassure my hon. Friend and his constituents that the MRA is carrying out daily investigations to get answers as swiftly as possible, and we are working with the council to provide support for residents. I can confirm that the Energy Minister is in touch with MSPs and will ensure that both my hon. Friend and his constituents are kept updated on the next steps.
Sources opened
| [1] | bbc.co.uk |
| [2] | independent.co.uk |
| [3] | independent.co.uk |
| [4] | bbc.com |
| [5] | alloaadvertiser.com |
| [6] | bbc.com |
| [7] | scotsman.com |
| [8] | independent.co.uk |
| [9] | expressandstar.com |