UK’s last deep coal mine to close next week

The end of production at the UK’s last remaining deep coal mine is scheduled to take place in a week’s time.

The UK's last remaining deep coal mine will close on 18 December. Picture: Anna Gowthorpe/PA Wire

UK Coal confirmed that Kellingley Colliery in North Yorkshire is set to close on 18 December, bringing an end to deep coal mining in this country.

The 450 miners who work at the pit – known locally as the Big K – will receive severance packages at 12 weeks’ of average pay.

Chris Kitchen, general secretary of the National Union of Mineworkers, said: “It’s a sad day now that the closure date has been confirmed.

“I am sure people will argue not burning coal is better for the environment, but as far as I am concerned this is another vindictive act.”