Full Breakdown
Lisa Nandy backs BT workers as company plans Liverpool office closure
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
BT Group announced that its Old Hall Street office in Liverpool will close when the lease expires in March 2027. The closure will affect roughly 600 jobs, which the company intends to relocate to other UK sites, including Manchester and Leeds, as part of a wider programme to consolidate staff in fewer, modern-equipped locations.
Background & Context
The proposed shutdown is one element of BT’s broader estate-modernisation strategy, aimed at reducing costs and updating facilities across the network. The company says the changes will not impact customers or services.
Key Figures & Groups
- Lisa Nandy MP – Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport and Labour MP for Wigan, supporting the protesting workers.
- Carl Webb – Representative of the Communications Workers Union (CWU).
- Caroline Gillies – CWU branch secretary in Liverpool.
- BT Group spokeswoman – Provides the company’s official response.
Data & Statistics
- 600 positions slated for relocation.
- The Liverpool office’s lease runs out in March 2027.
Official Statements & Responses
Lisa Nandy told BBC Radio Merseyside that the government is seeking a resolution to keep the jobs in the Liverpool City Region, emphasizing the city’s ambition to become a “world leader in telecommunications.” The BT spokesperson acknowledged the concerns raised, stating that the priority is to support impacted colleagues and that relocation options to other northern offices are being explored. The spokesperson also reiterated that no customers or services will be affected and that BT remains committed to engaging with unions, local representatives and MPs throughout the process.
Criticism & Opposition
Union representatives argue that the loss of 600 jobs would have a “massive knock-on effect” on the local economy. They stress the long-standing presence of BT in Liverpool and the specialist nature of many roles.
Verbatim Quotes
- “ However the Wigan MP continued: "This is people's families, it's their jobs, it's their lives.” — Wigan MP — Lisa Nandy MP (Wigan MP)
- “We believe as a government it is better for these jobs to remain here in the Liverpool City Region and that is why I have come down here today to show my support to the workers who are fighting to keep these jobs here in Liverpool.” — Carl Webb — Carl Webb, Communications Workers Union
- “BT has been in Liverpool for a long time, many people have worked for the company for a long time and they're doing some specialist jobs.” — Caroline Gillies, CWU branch secretary — Caroline Gillies, CWU branch secretary
- “There's no reason for them to exit Liverpool whatsoever.” — Caroline Gillies, CWU branch secretary — Caroline Gillies, CWU branch secretary
What’s Next
The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport has indicated it will continue discussions with BT, unions and local officials to explore options that could retain the jobs within the Liverpool City Region. No specific timetable for a decision has been announced.