The government has said it will work to “maximise” the number of jobs saved at the Lindsey Oil Refinery following its sale.
Energy firm Phillips 66 agreed to buy the site after the collapse of its previous owner, but has confirmed it will not restart refining operations.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband defended the successful bid as the “best and most viable”, despite criticism of the bidding process and claims that production could have continued under rival offers.
Unite the Union and Greater Lincolnshire Mayor Dame Andrea Jenkyns were among those urging Phillips 66 and the government to secure long-term employment for workers.
Around 250 jobs have been secured until the end of March, however Phillips 66 has yet to confirm how many roles will be retained beyond that point. A third of the workforce — 124 people — were made redundant at the end of October.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Miliband accused the previous owner of running the business “into the ground”.
He said the official receiver had alleged there was not “a viable bid to keep refining going”.
“That’s why P66 was chosen, and we are determined to work with them to maximise the number of jobs that it can deliver for the local community,” he added.
Part of the Gi Grimsby News team since 2020.