British Steel refurloughs 300 Teesside staff as production pauses for a further 3 weeks

British Steel has announced that it will be once again pausing production at its Teesside location.

The organisation reported that production will be halting at its Skinningrove site for three weeks, starting on Saturday 13 June.

The site had previously closed at the beginning of lockdown, but has since resumed production.

However, British Steel said that the market remains “tough”, leading to the furloughing of 300 staff while it closes.

The company commented: “As the market remains tough, we’ve now taken the decision to again temporarily pause production at Skinningrove for three weeks, starting on Saturday June 13.

“While a small number of employees will remain on site, around 300 of our people will be furloughed.

“We appreciate this will be a worrying time for our people, particularly those in our Special Profiles business, but this is a temporary measure and – like last time – we’ll look to resume production at the earliest opportunity.”

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen added: “I have spoken to bosses at British Steel today and I have been reassured that once again this is a temporary measure for three weeks and all of the jobs at Skinningrove have been protected.

“Due to the efficient nature of the plant, British Steel’s stock and client book remains strong, but a slowdown in business as a result of the coronavirus outbreak is the reason behind the pause.

“As more of the economy continues to reopen, the firm will be able to resume trading as normal.

“We remain in difficult circumstances because of the coronavirus, but I have always been confident of the firm’s commitment to our region, and the recruitment process opening last month for 40 new, good quality, Teesside jobs is proof of this.

“When we get through this, British Steel will play an important role in supporting our economic recovery by protecting thousands of jobs and supplying products to those that need them, allowing us to succeed as a region and come back bigger, better and stronger than ever before.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →