Hunter MP Joel Fitzgibbon says he would be concerned if a Hunter coal mining application was determined by personality, rather than science.

Controversial businessman Nathan Tinkler is moving to purchase Anglo American's Dartbrook mine at Aberdeen.

Concerns have been raised about Mr Tinkler's debts in the region and his ability to cover liability for the mine's rehabilitation.

Mr Fitzgibbon said he understands the concerns, but it is important any future mine applications follow due process.

"Doing it on the basis of personality would concern me," he said.

"But, certainly, it's legitimate for us to be concerned about whether the applicant has the capacity to put up the necessary bonds to ensure that that rehabilitation takes place.

"But this is all for those who deal with the application process."

The sale of the mine is expected to be finalised in the months ahead.

Dartbrook is an underground coal mine and has been closed for several years.