Public-private proposal for Lindsey Oil Refinery
An investment consortium which has expressed interest in acquiring the refinery
Last updated 9th Oct 2025
A prospective buyer for Lindsey Oil Refinery has put forward a new proposal, calling on the Government to join forces in a public-private partnership to run the refinery. Investor Marc Amram, who leads an investment consortium which has expressed interest in acquiring the refinery, has issued a direct call to the Labour Government to take up the proposal.
Under Mr Amram’s proposal, the UK Government would retain ownership of the refinery, ensuring British control over a strategic national asset, while the revival and operation would be fully financed by private equity. It is contended the public-private partnership would protect British jobs, safeguard national energy security,and revive a critical UK refinery, without costing the taxpayers a penny.
The plan promises to deliver new investment, secure employment, and reduce dependence on costly fuel imports, all while protecting public funds. “This is a moment for leadership and partnership,” said Mr Amram, speaking on behalf of his investment consortium.
“Labour has made a clear commitment to rebuild Britain’s industrial strength and protect working families. Our proposal delivers exactly that — British control, private investment, and a stronger, self-sufficient energy future. We stand ready to work with the Government immediately to make it happen.”
Prevention of closure would also eliminate the need for costly decommissioning, saving public expenditure while preserving a key piece of the UK’s industrial infrastructure. A North Lincolnshire Council policy ask document on the refinery to Government has previously suggested a 30 year programme of remediation would be needed, if the site closed down.
The profit-sharing joint venture would ensure returns for both the taxpayer and private investors. The investment consortium led by Mr Amram believe it would create a long-term model for how Britain can modernise its energy sector responsibly and sustainably.
“This is not just about saving a refinery,” Mr Amram added. “It’s about proving that with the right partnership between private enterprise and a forward-looking Labour Government, Britain can lead again — creating jobs, cutting imports, and securing our energy future for generations to come.”
The bid process for the refinery currently continues. The site and bid process is being overseen by the independent Official Receiver. An Insolvency Service spokesperson has previously stated: “The Official Receiver is in ongoing discussions with a number of parties to progress bids with the objective of achieving a sale of the business. The Official Receiver remains committed to exploring the best possible outcome.
“To do so, each bid is being considered with care, due diligence and on an equal footing.” Energy Minister Michael Shanks has also previously said the Government is “hopeful that a solution will be found that supports jobs on the site long-term”.
It is understood the bid process is expected to wrap up in mid to late October. 255 workers directly employed at the refinery will remain employed beyond the end of the month. 125 workers were given redundancy notices on September 30, to terminate their employment at the end of this month.