Cornwall is a county renowned for its geological diversity and world-famous mining heritage. While its landscape is spectacular, it also presents a range of ground-related risks that can significantly impact land development, construction projects and property investment.
At Wheal Jane Consultancy, we specialise in ground investigations in Cornwall, helping developers, landowners and investors identify, assess and mitigate site risks with confidence.
Below, we explore Cornwall’s most common ground hazards — and how our expert team investigates them.
1. Mining Risks in Cornwall
Cornwall’s long history of tin, copper and china clay mining has left a legacy of underground workings and surface features. Unrecorded mine shafts, adits, stopes and shallow workings can pose serious risks to new developments. Mining-related hazards can result in ground collapse, subsidence, structural damage and unexpected foundation costs if not properly assessed at an early stage.
Our Mining Risk Assessment Approach
We begin with a detailed desk study, reviewing historical mining records, geological data and our extensive archive of annotated maps and previous site investigations. This allows us to identify potential mining constraints before intrusive works begin.
Where risks are identified, we may recommend a site walkover survey, footings inspection or intrusive ground investigation. In higher-risk areas, targeted mine shaft probing can also be undertaken to confirm the presence or absence of underground workings. Our aim is always to provide clear, practical advice that reduces uncertainty and supports safe, cost-effective development.
2. Ground Instability & Subsidence
Cornwall’s complex geology means certain areas are susceptible to natural ground instability. Settlement and subsidence risks can be heightened when weak superficial deposits are present or where historical mining activity has altered ground conditions. Without proper investigation, instability can lead to foundation movement, drainage failure and increased construction costs.
Our Geotechnical Investigation Services
We carry out site-specific geotechnical investigations tailored to the proposed development. This typically includes trial pits and boreholes to understand ground conditions, alongside soil sampling and laboratory testing to assess bearing capacity and determine the depth to competent bedrock.
To support foundation, drainage and road design, we also undertake in-situ testing such as drainage tests, CBR testing for pavement design and Standard Penetration Testing (SPT) to assess soil strength. These investigations ensure that designs are appropriate, compliant and economically optimised.
3. Contaminated Land in Cornwall
Cornwall’s industrial and mining past means some sites may contain elevated levels of contaminants, including arsenic, lead, hydrocarbons and asbestos. These contaminants can pose risks to human health, groundwater and the wider environment, particularly where land is being redeveloped for residential or commercial use.
Our Contaminated Land Assessment Process
We follow a structured and compliant approach to contaminated land assessment. This begins with a Phase I Preliminary Risk Assessment (PRA), which involves reviewing historical land use, environmental records and potential sources of contamination.
If potential risks are identified, we proceed to a Phase II Intrusive Site Investigation. Soil and groundwater samples are collected and analysed by accredited laboratories to determine the nature and extent of contamination. Where required, we develop remediation strategies and carry out verification inspections to ensure planning and environmental regulations are satisfied.
Why Choose Wheal Jane Consultancy?
With decades of local expertise, Wheal Jane Consultancy delivers specialist mining risk assessments, geotechnical investigations, contaminated land surveys and environmental risk assessments across Cornwall. Our reports are clear, practical and compliant with UK planning and environmental regulations.
We combine in-depth local knowledge with technical precision to help clients unlock land potential safely and sustainably. Whether you’re developing a residential scheme, investing in commercial property or assessing agricultural land, understanding your site’s ground risks is essential.
📞 Call us today on 01872 560200
📧 Email: consultancy@wheal-jane.co.uk
to discuss your site or request a quote.
