Scunthorpe Steel Plant on the Brink, Unions Amp Up Hope
Allan Bell is the new interim boss of the Scunthorpe steel works – but the real buzz is whether the furnace fires will stay blazing. A quick 48‑hour delivery of raw materials could mean the difference between a permanent shutdown and a continuing heartbeat.
Why Those 48 Hours Matter
- Raw Material on the Way? Union leaders say a fresh delivery could keep the blast furnaces alive.
- Permanent Shutdown on the Horizon? Without that, the plant risks going from humming factory to cold, empty silence.
Voices From the Unions
Andy Prendergast, national secretary at GMB, told PA:
“We’re confident the raw‑material deal is moving and could preserve the plant’s future. Whether that means nationalisation of a key national asset or a serious private investor stepping in, the goal is to keep this plant going and maintain UK steel‑making capacity.”
He added:
“We’re hoping the delivery happens in the next 48 hours, but we’re still waiting for final confirmation. The logistics need to be in place to get the material to the plant on time.”
Roy Rickhuss, Community trade union general secretary, spoke on BBC Radio 4:
“The Chinese owners Jingye seem to be working against the business – they haven’t ordered the raw materials we need.”
What the Plan Looks Like
- Secure logistics so the material reaches Scunthorpe on time.
- Negotiate a long‑term deal to protect the plant’s future.
- Keep the furnace fires blazing while exploring ownership options.
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