There could be a possible buyer for the troubled Coryton oil refinery in Essex, Unite, the largest union in the country, said today (Wednesday, 13 June).
Unite national officer, Linda McCulloch said: “We understand that there is a possible buyer for Coryton. We can’t say who it is at present as that might jeopardise any negotiations. We understand the possible purchaser has made contact with the government.
Subscribe to PII and receive:
Our long-established bi-monthly digital magazine *Process Industry Informer*, featuring exclusive articles, news and updates across the Process Industries, plus commentary from our three industry experts:
Sean Moran
Gavin Smith
Dave Green
PLUS:
- Process Industry Update — our weekly e-newsletter
- PII Podcast
- Special messages from our advertising partners
“However, we urge the administrators, PWC to make contact urgently with the possible purchaser as nearly 1,000 vital jobs are at stake.”
Unite has already called on the government to follow the example of the French government and act in the national interest by giving state aid to keep Coryton running until a viable buyer can be found.
Linda McCulloch said: “At a time when there is concern about the future security of fuel and energy supplies to the UK, ministers need to act in the national interest and be prepared to step in to safeguard Coryton until the plant has a new owner.
“Coryton is too important to the economy, nationally and locally, and to fuel supplies to be allowed to close.”
A public meeting has been called at the Pitsea Leisure Centre, Northlands Pavement, Basildon, Essex SS13 3DU for 7.30pm, Monday, 18 June to rally support to keep the refinery open.
Thurrock council has commissioned an economic impact assessment on the closure or change of use of the site.
Initial indications point to the loss of £30 million in wages, £26 million in contractor costs, £6 million in locally sourced materials, as well as £40 million spent on chemicals and utilities, plus £5 million in business rates.
