Karst geohazard database

The current database was developed to record Karst Geohazard information acquired as part of its onshore core and commissioned mapping programmes. Information held on the database includes details on stream sinks, sinkholes, natural cavities and associated building damage. The database is being compiled when staff and project funds are available to do the work. The dataset is currently updated on an irregular basis as new karst geohazard information is received from field surveys. Karst geohazard details observed and measured in the field are recorded on a standard proforma or digitally using the BGS•SIGMAmobile tablet computers or in the office via a GSD (Geological Spatial Database) to ensure consistency of information and to allow easy entry into the database. The database currently holds details of karst geohazards in: The limestone areas of the Mendip Hills, Bath, Bristol, Monmouth, Plymouth, Derbyshire Dome,and South Wales (North Crop), North Pennines (Malham to Hawes and Weardale: Rookhope to Cornriggs). The chalk of Southern England (especially in Dorset, and the Salisbury, Winchester, Andover, Basingstoke, Dorchester, Hungerford and Alresford, Worthing, South London (Leatherhead-Croydon-Bromley), Newbury, Maidenhead, Hemel Hempstead, St Albans, Hatfield. Jurassic limestone areas from Grantham to Stamford. Gypsum areas in Yorkshire, Cumbria and Darlington. Salt areas in Cheshire and Stafford (natural and brine extraction-induced sinkholes). The database is eventually intended to hold information on karst geohazards throughout Great Britain and about half of the country is now included.

Data and Resources

  • The BGS Homepage is an entry point to the BGS data services.

Additional Info

Field Value
Last Updated November 5, 2025, 06:24 (UTC)
Created June 3, 2011, 12:15 (UTC)