Councillor brokers Barclays and Gentoo parking deal to reduce Covid-19 risk for workers

Workers at Barclays offices at Doxford International Business Park in Sunderland won't have to increase their risk of catching or spreading coronavirus after a local councillor stepped in to find a solution to parking problems.

Due to a shortage of parking spaces outside Barclay's Sunderland offices at Doxford Park, staff usually park in overflow carparks in Silksworth and using a minibus to get from their cars to the office building.

Local Liberal Democrat councillor for the area Heather Fagan was concerned that staff were being asked to ignore social distancing advice by using the minibuses, so approached local social landlord Gentoo, who agreed that their neighbouring car parking spaces - which aren't in use whilst staff work from home - could be used by Barclays staff instead.

It now means Barclays key workers - who are continuing to work to support businesses and customers through the coronavirus crisis - can park in Gentoo's car park instead of using minibuses to the overflow car parks.

Commenting, Lib Dem councillor for Doxford Heather Fagan said:

"Understandably key workers at Barclays were concerned about being in close proximity to others on the minibuses between the office at Doxford International and the overflow car parks in Silksworth.

"I'd like to thank Gentoo for their support and for quickly agreeing to let Barclays staff who are helping small businesses at this difficult time to use their spaces during the Covid-19 restrictions.

"This should reduce the risks for Barclays staff who can park nearby, as well as reducing the numbers of people using the minibuses themselves so people don't have to sit in close proximity to other people.

"It will also be welcome news for residents living nearby in Moorside who should see a reduction in the number of workers parking in their streets and cul-de-sacs."