Vauxhall decision a ‘vote of confidence’

THE decision by Vauxhall’s owner General Motors to increase production at the Ellesmere Port factory has been hailed as a “vote of confidence” in one of the group’s top plants.

After months of uncertainty around the plant many feared job cuts as part of a plan to slash 9,000 GM positions at sites across Europe.

But Ellesmere Port, which employs 2,200, will step up production to support the launch of a new Astra. A factory in Luton will lose 350 jobs.

Damian Waters, North West regional director of the business group CBI said: “After a worrying period of uncertainy and concern for Vauxhall at Ellesmere Port, it is great to have this news confirmed.

“The Ellesmere Port plant plays a vital role in UK motor manufacturing and I am looking forward to a bright future at the home of the Astra.”

Andrew Miller, MP for Ellesmere Port and Neston, said: “This is a fantastic example of how British industry, the unions and the Government are working together. They have pulled off a result which is the very best for Britain.”

Steven Broomhead, chief executive of the North West Development Agency said the development was “fantastic news for the region”.

“Ellesmere Port is one of the most efficient factories in the global General Motors portfolio and an important employer in the region. The staff and management deserve this vote of confidence from the owners.

General Motors earlier this month ditched plans to sell Vauxhall and its other European businesses

The automotive sector in the North West is the second largest in the UK, supporting around 43,000 jobs.