Temporary solution to parking problems
a local councillor and two majoremployersontheparkhave finalised a new arrangement.
Staff at Barclays’ Admiral Way call centre, which is still operating as a key service provider during the current crisis, will now be able to use the nearbycarparkofhousingprovider Gentoo.
Discussions were initiated byLiberalDemocratcouncillor Heather Fagan, who said: “I’d like to thank Gentoo for their support and for quickly agreeingtoletBarclaysstaff,whoare 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.”
Gentoocurrentlyhasspace after shutting its offices on a temporary basis in response to the pandemic.
Chief executive Nigel Wilsonsaid:“Duringsuchdifficult andchallengingtimesit’shugely important for local businesses to work together and support one another where possible.
“We’re pleased to be assisting Barclays in delivering key services from Sunderland by freeing up car parking space at our Doxford Park office.”
Rob Sargent, site president at Barclays Sunderland Contact Centre, where more than 1,000 people are employed, said: “This is fantastic news forourcolleaguesinthesechallenging times to be able to use the facilities at Gentoo and we are grateful for their support.
“The health and safety of ourcolleaguesisextremelyimportant to us and we are constantly assessing that priority alongside the need to ensure we continue to serve and support our customers.”