A Coal Mining Risk Assessment (CMRA) has been a statutory planning requirement since 2011 for developing high-risk areas, where shallow coal mining voids may exist. Patrick Parsons’ CMRA reports are compiled using data supplied by the Coal Authority, British Geological Survey and other sources of information such as the Durham Mining Museum and the Institution of Mining and Metallurgy. Approximately 75% of sites where a CMRA has been undertaken will recommend a physical investigation of the ground to confirm the underground mining status.