BMA has decided to close the mine after 33 years in operation, citing non-profitability.

The alliance had announced the mine’s closure a month ago, stating that the 55 personnel employed there would be redeployed to other operations in the BMA, however, the 240 plus contractors would be relieved of their services.

BMA asset president Stephen Dumble revealed earlier in September 2012 that production costs at the mine had exceeded profits from sales.

The Gregory Crinum complex consists of the Gregory open cut operations, coal preparation plant and the Crinum underground mine.

Operations at the coal handling plant and the Crinum mine are expected to continue for now.