READERS have had their say after an office that was previously saved from the brink has been earmarked for closure.

Barrow’s Department of Work and Pensions office in Phoenix House could close as part of plans that Labour claims would put up to 3,000 jobs at risk.

The Public and Commercial Services (PCS) Union said that the Government will close 42 DWP sites by the end of June.

Charlie Dowthwaite said: “This is yet another nasty attack upon the interests of the working class and I for one encourage all workers at this DWP office to fight back against these closure plans.

“They fought back around three years ago and won their case and I encourage them to do it today.

“We need these offices so workers who exposed to asbestos in their lifetime can pursue industrial damage claims.

“Solidarity to all at this DWP office.”

Keith Glasgow said: “The decision to close Phoenix House is about saving money (rent and rates).

“It’s not necessarily in the best interests of those people suffering with industrial injuries and diseases.

“This specialist department, has years of experience dealing with such claims e.g. asbestos disease related compensation (which unfortunately many in Barrow will be familiar with).

“It has no connection to the Jobcentre.

“John Woodcock did a fabulous job in supporting the successful campaign to keep it open a few years ago, it’s to be hoped that Simon Fell can now do the same.”

Stickinthemiddles said: “Get it closed and convert it into flats.

“Everyone has access to the internet now, we were handing tablets and laptops out like sweets during lockdown.”

Essoblue said: “Get a few charity shops in that building and a few takeaways should be enough room for all.”

Septimus Quinn said: “John Woodcock did a fabulous job in supporting the successful campaign to keep the office open previously.

“It’s a very specialist department that deals with industrial disease compensation, in particular mesothelioma and asbestos related compensation claims.

“The decision being made is to save money on rent and not necessarily in the best interests of those people suffering with industrial injuries and diseases.”