Clipstone's headstocks were once the second tallest in the world

The pit closed in April 2003 and the local council gave permission to the Coal Authority to pull down the former baths and canteen.

Bill Denton, operations manager of the Coal Authority, said the buildings were becoming a safety hazard.

"They are beyond repair and are becoming an attraction for vandals and are becoming unsafe," he said.

Vandal target

The derelict buildings have been vandalised since the pit closed 18 months ago, and a report said it could cost more than �500,000 to repair them.

The Coal Authority had applied for permission to demolish them to make way for new development.

The buildings, dating back to the 1930's, are opposite the main colliery.

The pit head is listed and will remain on the site.

Planners said the buildings - which were originally listed as well - have no historic merit, and that redevelopment would help to transform a dilapidated and unattractive site.

The site was used by the National Coal Board until 1993, and then taken over by RJB Mining.