New parking agreement helps Sunderland residents and key workers

People in the Silksworth, Moorside and Doxford Park areas of Sunderland have repeatedly complained about employees at the Doxford International Business Park parking cars in their neighbourhoods and walking or catching shuttle buses to their offices.

Now, with more staff working from home during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, a local councillor and two major employers on the park have 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 be able to use the nearby car park of housing provider Gentoo from Thursday, April 2.

Discussions were initiated by Liberal Democrat councillor Heather Fagan, who said: “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.”

Gentoo currently has space after shutting its offices on a temporary basis in response to the pandemic.

Chief executive Nigel Wilson said: “During such difficult and challenging times it’s hugely 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 for our colleagues in these challenging times to be able to use the facilities at Gentoo and we are grateful for their support.

“The health and safety of our colleagues is extremely important to us and we are constantly assessing that priority alongside the need to ensure we continue to serve and support our customers.”

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