Official Opening of the Mining Damage Desk Heerlen: Finally Recognition and Perspective for Mining Damage in Limburg

In the heart of Heerlen, today on National Miners Day, the Institute for Environment, People and Mining Limburg (I3ML) was officially opened. With the arrival of I3ML, there is now a single central desk where residents of the ten former mining municipalities can report damage to their homes caused by mining. Deputy Elianne Demollin-Schneiders, together with Minister Hermans (Climate and Green Growth), Alderman Gelderblom (Heerlen), and involved residents, gave the go-ahead for the new desk, marking a historic moment for Limburg.

The opening took place at the music venue De Nieuwe Nor with great attention to Limburgs mining past and the regions future. Musical performances by Carboon, stories from former miners, and a panel discussion with officials highlighted the importance and impact of mining on generations of Limburg residents. Victims have often waited years for recognition and actual assistance. With the kickoff of I3ML, change is finally coming.

Clarity and Support for Residents

Deputy Elianne Demollin-Schneiders calls the opening a milestone: “The Mining Damage Limburg dossier has a long history of consultation and coordination between the Province, the national government, and involved municipalities. Together with our regional partners, we have worked hard for a solution, and that recognition is now here. It truly pleases me that there is finally a place where homeowners with mining damage can turn to. With the scheme now in place, we offer clarity and support to residents affected by mining damage. I hope this scheme brings peace and confidence to affected homeowners in Limburg.”

Accessible for Private Homeowners

The new desk at Kloosterweg 22 in Heerlen will be accessible from January 2, 2026, for private homeowners who want to report damage. The scheme will be introduced in phases: residents will receive information by letter about when they can submit their report, ensuring everyone receives proper attention. Besides damage handling, the institute offers support for repairs and serves as a platform for cooperation, education, and future-proof policy around mining and sustainable development.

Broader Recognition of National Debt of Honor

The arrival of I3ML is part of a broader recognition of the national debt of honor to the Limburg mining region. The institute also forms a structural platform for policy, knowledge sharing, and future-proof cooperation between government, residents, and partners in the region.

More Information

More information about reports, the process, and the desks opening hours can be found at www.mijnbouwschadelimburg.nl (links to another website) (opens external website) or by phone at 088 - 042 9444.

The name of the Institute for Environment, People and Mining (I3ML) refers to the rich history of the Limburg mining region. Where mining once took precedence, now restoration and recognition for environment and people are central. I3ML is already reachable by phone and will focus not only on handling mining damage but also on sustainability and research.

I3ML is a collaboration between the national government, the Province, and municipalities. The national government is responsible for the mining damage scheme. The Province and municipalities are responsible for the other two tasks of I3ML.