The mining damage scheme has finally been opened after intensive cooperation with the national government, municipalities, and the Institute for Environment, People and Mining Limburg (refers to another website) (opens external website) (I3ML) after fifty years, providing a legally established and transparent process for handling mining damage. I3ML is the only organization that handles damage reports resulting from coal mining in South Limburg.
Since the opening at the end of December 2025, hundreds of applications have already been processed. However, in recent weeks, messages have circulated that have caused concern among some residents. These messages state that a damage advice paid service is required to be eligible for compensation. This is incorrect. No paid advice from a third party is required for the mining damage scheme.
Sufficient plausibility
The Province of Limburg and the former mining municipalities therefore emphasize again with a joint statement that the scheme is legally anchored and that residents of the ten former mining municipalities do not need paid statements or external advice to report possible mining damage. The principle of sufficient plausibility forms the basis of the assessment. Furthermore, any resident can object if they disagree with a decision.
Transparent and fair handling of mining damage
Elianne Demollin-Schneiders, deputy for Mining Damage: “The professionals of I3ML, the institute that executes the mining damage scheme, are ready to provide customized solutions within the scheme. Residents will be notified when it is their turn to report damage. I3ML does its utmost to assess every situation fairly and carefully. We continuously engage with partners to resolve bottlenecks and improve the scheme where necessary. We remain committed to transparent and fair handling of mining damage.”
Milestone for the region
Alderman Casper Gelderblom (municipality of Heerlen) agrees: “After fifty years, there is finally a general, nationally anchored scheme for mining damage. This is a milestone for our region. We can be truly proud that there is now recognition for residents who have waited so long. At the same time, we know that no scheme is perfect from day one. Therefore, we continue constructive dialogue and listen carefully to signals from practice, so we can keep improving the scheme where needed.”
Residents with questions or doubts about the procedure are urged to contact I3ML or consult the official statement. This guarantees correct information and prevents unnecessary worries.
Want to know more?
Read here the full, official statement from the Province of Limburg and the ten former mining municipalities.