Surface Mining Areas denote an area of coal extracted by surface excavations in the past or are being excavated currently, these sites do not necessarily reflect the extent of the excavation. Coal resources may still be available within these areas due to the inefficiencies of some historic mining techniques. These areas are often referred to as “opencast mining”. Together with the Surface Coal Resource Area data, provide information to Mineral Planning Authorities for assisting in defining Mineral Safeguarding Areas in policy strategy. In November 2024, the Coal Authority changed its name to the Mining Remediation Authority to better reflect its mission and continued commitment to environmental sustainability, safety, and community support.