HDR created from 5 exposures.
I feel Clipstone Colliery headstocks are Nottinghamshire, is an iconic reminder of the British Mining Industry. The Period of decline which led to the strikes and civil unrest experienced during the 1980's made mining the Industry that symbolized Britain's industrial decline. The result was the mass closure of pits in the years that followed.
In 1922 shafts were sunk at Clipstone colliery to exploit the top hard seam. In the 1950’s the National Coal Board deepened the shafts and created the present day headstocks. Standing 65m, they were once the second highest in the world. The mine ceased operation in July 2003 when it was decided the remaining reserves were no longer economical.
The following year saw vandalism and demolition remove the offices and shower blocks. But under the protection of a conservation order the headstocks and winding house survived.
A recent poll among local residents found in favour of demolition and it is now likely that these impressive structures will be demolished, although some are fighting to keep them as a monument to coal mining in the area.
