CONSTRUCTION workers have hailed as a ‘victory’ a decision to pull staff off site at Barrow’s shipyard.

The government has urged BAE Systems bosses to continue some programmes of work deemed ‘essential to the UK’s defence’ despite the coronavirus pandemic.

These BAE workers have been declared as ‘key workers’ by Boris Johnson.

However, earlier this week concerns were raised about a number of contractors working on the BAE site for contractor Morgan Sindall.

Photos had been shared on social media this week showing large groups of construction workers in close proximity at the shipyard although The Mail had not been able to confirm when or where the pictures had been taken.

Following a review BAE bosses have intervened and urged Morgan Sindall to send non-essential staff home.

BAE Systems has now confirmed that construction work has been halted.

A spokesman for the company said yesterday: “With support from Morgan Sindall, we made a decision to temporarily suspend work on the project while an assessment is made into ways of working.”

One contractor working for Morgan Sindall said: “We’re really pleased that common sense has prevailed.

“It’s something of a victory I suppose; and it’s reassuring to us to know that BAE has stepped in and both companies have taken steps to protect us.”

A spokesman for Morgan Sindall was unavailable for comment.