One of the Hunter’s largest coal mining companies has called an emergency meeting with its workforce this morning, sparking speculation over the future of one of the region’s oldest underground mines.

Yancoal notified employees on Monday that all Ashton Mine workers are required to attend a town hall meeting at Singleton Civic Centre at 8am Tuesday. Staff were not told the reason for the meeting.

Some workers were sent home early on Monday to ensure they could attend after meeting the required 10-hour break between shifts.

The Ashton underground mine, located about 15 kilometres northwest of Singleton, employs around 300 people and produces approximately 2.5 million tonnes of coal each year.

The mine has reportedly experienced a number of geological challenges in recent years, including water seepage into sections of the longwall.

The purpose of Tuesday’s meeting has not been officially confirmed. More information is expected once the briefing concludes.