Construction workers on Europe’s largest bioethanol plant at Wilton are back on site after contract issues were resolved.
Around 1,000 workers who were sent home on paid leave at 5pm on Tuesday were turned away the following day, as project bosses held long talks into the night.
It is believed the dispute was over payments between site managers Simon Carves and sub-contractors.
Ensus - the company leading the £250m project - was due to take over the management of the construction programme, but an agreement was reached between all parties yesterday.
GMB regional organiser Jimmy Skivington said: “We have heard this morning that Simon Carves are back running the project. It’s business as usual now, that’s the main thing.”
The dispute is the latest in a series of delays to hit the massive build programme, which has caused the predicted late summer completion date to slip.
Workers held wildcat strikes in both May and June, one of which lasted a week, in support of sacked workers at an unrelated Lincolnshire oil refinery.
Ensus chief executive Alwyn Hughes said: “I’m delighted we’ve resolved the situation with Simon Carves, it’s very good news for us and the sub-contractors. I’ve very keen to see all partners focused on getting the plant completed as quickly as possible.
“We have been running late, but have started commissioning processes.
“This is a massive integrated chemical plant and will be brought online over a number of months. This plant represents something very positive for the future in what is a difficult time for the industry.”
Simon Carves could not be reached for comment.
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