COUNTY DURHAM-based mining and transport company Hargreaves Services has confirmed  plans to mothball its colliery at Maltby, South Yorkshire, placing about 540 jobs at risk.

It said that geological risks associated with mining a panel in the mine near Rotherham have not reduced. Maltby Colliery, which has been producing coal for more than 100 years, has suffered problems with the presence of gas, water and oil in the development of the new coal face.

Hargreaves, based in Esh Winning, said last month that the mine faced the risk of being closed, but said it did not expect the move would have a significant impact on jobs at its North-East headquarters.

A spokesman said today (Wednesday): “Regrettably, the board’s proposal inevitably means that all employees working at Maltby Colliery continue to be at risk of redundancy.

“In the event that redundancies are necessary, the company remains committed to exploring alternative employment opportunities for staff.”

It said staff and unions with viable alternatives should get in touch before the end of the month.