AROUND 200 oil refinery jobs could be at risk after bosses revealed plans for a major review – including possibly selling the site.
Swiss-based firm Petroplus is scrutinising the future for its refinery at Seal Sands, on the outskirts of Hartlepool.
It comes just months after the firm was said to have made an operating loss for 2007-2008 of £262m.
The potential cuts prompte
d a reaction from Business Minister Pat McFadden, who said: "The Teesside Oil Refinery is an important local employer. I would like to see as many jobs as possible remain at the refinery once it has been sold, but recognise that this will be a decision for the buyers."
Back in February, management said they would "evaluate strategic alternatives, including the potential sale or conversion to a terminal or storage facility".
Now the official period of consultation has begun with the workforce at the plant, which the Mail understands will last for 90 days.
But a change to a storage facility could see 200 jobs go at the plant.
A company statement issued yesterday said: "Several options are under consideration including the potential sale of the refinery or conversion to a terminal or storage facility. Petroplus is now entering a consultation process with employee representatives to discuss the future of the local workforce."
