Workers at Lindsey Oil Refinery (LOR) have spoken out about the devastating impact the plant’s potential closure and the resulting job losses could have on communities in North East Lincolnshire.
The refinery entered administration in June, placing hundreds of jobs at immediate risk and threatening thousands more in the wider supply chain. Unions and local representatives are continuing talks with government officials in an effort to secure the site’s future.
Since the announcement, staff have described the toll on their families and raised fears about the broader socio-economic fallout. Fred Brown, Process Operator and Branch Secretary for the Unite union, warned that the impact could extend far beyond the refinery itself. Drawing on the example of the Grangemouth oil refinery in Scotland, he voiced concerns about history repeating itself in North East Lincolnshire.
“A recent study showed that for every worker who lost their job at the site, 4-5 other workers were affected,” he explained. “You see a knock-on effect when shops start to shut, in the pubs and the B&Bs.”
“The individual might get a new job but would have to move, and so that affects the area,” Mr Brown added.
Dan Ingham, Process Operator and E Shift Union representative, echoed those concerns: “We’re losing very well-paid jobs. You know, there are a lot of people struggling at the moment, and we are going to join that list.”
Dave Smith, who also works at LOR and is a member of Unite, added: “We found out the devastating news seven weeks ago, and people aren’t in a very good place. I’m really concerned. You talk to workers, and you can see tears in their eyes.”
To support staff through the uncertainty, Unite has launched a weekly walking group, giving workers a chance to talk, share their worries and lean on each other. The initiative is aimed at helping people stay mentally strong at a time when many are struggling with fears over their families, relationships, and even their homes.
Roy Horobin
Joined the Gi Grimsby News team in 2025.
Part of the Gi Grimsby News team since 2020.