Ellesmere Port escapes Vauxhall job cuts and plans for secure long-term future

Nov 27 2009 by Neil Hodgson, Liverpool Daily Post

Vauxhall factory in Ellesmere Port _320

He said when Ellesmere Port staff heard the news, the mood around the plant was positive.

“You can’t get more certain than three shifts and no job losses and people are relieved and happy and we can start making plans for a long term future.”

He also paid tribute to the Government and union General Secretaries for their part in fighting the plant’s cause: “They have been superb.”

Andrew Miller, Labour MP for Ellesmere Port and Neston, added: “The co-operation between the Government, Unite the Union and Vauxhall management has brought about this stunning success for Ellesmere Port.”

Steven Broomhead, Chief Executive of regeneration body the Northwest Development Agency, which has provided £8.7m for training at the plant, said: “This is fantastic news for the region. Ellesmere Port is one of the most efficient factories in the global GM portfolio and an important employer in the region. The staff and management deserve this vote of confidence from the owners.”

GM said it was unlikely any new jobs would be created to staff the third shift in 2011.

A spokesman said: “Existing work patterns will be changed.”