This paper describes the application of computational modelling to the prediction of the stability of methane drainage boreholes during the extraction life of an active long wall coal panel within a United Kingdom coal mine. The modelling was undertaken to investigate the affects that changes in the roof geology and roadway support system may have on the deformation and closure of the gas drainage boreholes drilled from the tailgate across the goaf of an active long wall panel. The paper also outlines the development of an analytical model to estimate the bending deformation, axial strain, and the rupture of borehole casing due to rock shear. This model was used in conjunction with the geomechanical strata models to predict the distance behind the face line at which excessive borehole deformation and closure would occur. This method was used to evaluate the optimum roadway support system and spacing between boreholes to maintain effective borehole drainage subject to the range of geological conditions encountered during the panel retreat. A good correlation was obtained between the model predictions and the geomechanical and gas drainage data measured at a UK Colliery. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.