Ineos said on Tuesday it has responded to requests from customers and delayed the planned summer shutdown of its Forties Pipeline System (FPS).

“The decision has been taken in the face of the growing corona virus pandemic and the need to avoid bringing together large numbers of people,” said Ineos.

The company said it has written to all its customers saying there will be a delay to the shutdown that was planned for June 16, 2020. 

The shutdown will not now start before August 2020 at the earliest.

“Ineos is also mindful of the benefits of completing this project work to the future operation of FPS and the risks of not going ahead,” added the company.

“However, it recognises the importance of maintain a flow of oil and gas through FPS during the current situation. 

“The company found that there was an overwhelming desire to delay the shutdown by its customers which it is responding to.

“In the coming days Ineos will continue to have discussions with its customers and other stakeholders to define the best dates to plan these projects.”