Mayor secures SABIC pledge to protect jobs

A Teesside chemical plant will remain open after assurances from its operators, a regeneration boss has said.

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen met with SABIC chief executive Abdulrahman Al-Fageeh in Saudi Arabia, after the company announced plans to close its Olefins 6 cracker plant in Wilton. 

Talks have secured a commitment that the firm’s polyethylene plant will continue operating, safeguarding numerous local roles.

To provide immediate help for workers affected by job losses, a dedicated taskforce has been established by the mayor in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and the National Careers Service. 

The initiative will provide retraining, careers advice and practical guidance to help employees access new opportunities at sites including Teesworks and the Teesside Freeport.

Pressure on the local chemical sector follows the Government’s decision to exclude it from the Industrial Strategy and the UK–US trade deal, which leaves the US with unrestricted access to the UK market and undermines domestic ethanol production.

Despite these national setbacks, the mayor remains focused on protecting local jobs and positioning Teesside as a global hub for future industries.

Mayor Houchen said: “Teesside has powered this country for generations and our skilled workers remain second to none. 

“While this Government may have turned its back on the chemical sector, I won’t. 

“The decision to close the cracker plant is a serious blow to our local chemicals sector, however I am pleased to have secured this commitment from Sabic on the future of its polyethylene, which will continue to play a key role in our process industry.

“Teesside has always come first in anything I do. 

“I will fight in boardrooms overseas and here at home to protect local jobs, attract new investment, and secure our long-term future.

“For anyone impacted by these job losses, you won’t face this alone.

“Through the taskforce we have set up with DWP and the National Careers Service, we’ll make sure you get the advice, support and training you need to get back into work. 

“I will always look after and fight for the people of Teesside.”

To access support led by the taskforce, workers can email the Tees Valley Combined Authority adult skills team at AEB@teesvalley-ca.gov.uk

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