Work began at Penalta in 1906 and achieved full production by 1909. In 1939 it took the european record for coal wound in a single week, In 1986 the fortunes of the mine took a downturn with a fire on the coal face leading to the end of production in 1991.

Since its closure Penalta colliery has remained derelict, a rare survivor from the mining industry that was once a major employer in the area. The buildings have survived the ravages of closure, decay and systematic destruction

Since our first visit we have been back numerous times exploring and photographing the various buildings on site from the dilapidated pithead baths to the rusting headstocks, Each time noticing something new.

Unlike many other pits penalta will be retained as part of a preservation and redevelopment project managed by the phoenix trust, Clearance work in preparation for a new housing estate surrounding the existing buildings has already begun.