Dunne: Bleak day for Bridgnorth as largest employer plans to close

Local MP Philip Dunne is dismayed by the announcement by Novelis of its plans to close its plant in Bridgnorth.

"This is a bleak day for Bridgnorth. Novelis, the town's largest private sector employer plans to shut down next year with the loss of 319 jobs.

This is devastating news for those employed at the plant and a worry for local suppliers and other traders who rely on business from the plant and its employees.

Bridgnorth is the largest aluminium processing centre in the UK. I led a debate earlier this year warning of the threat to the competitiveness of the UK aluminium industry from, amongst other things, the previous government's longstanding failure to address long-term competitive energy supplies.

The company cites over capacity in European production, softening demand in Europe and reduced international competitiveness as reasons for its decision to shift production to other plants in Europe. There is no question about the quality of product or commitment of the workforce here in Bridgnorth.

Britain needs to maintain a viable manufacturing base. I want to do whatever I can to help maintain Bridgnorth's role as the UK's processing centre for rolled aluminium products.

I have arranged to meet Novelis' management, trade union representatives and employees as soon as possible. I shall be seeking commitments from the company for it to consider all alternatives, including potential disposal as a going concern.

I have also been in contact with Advantage West Midlands and Shropshire Council to help coordinate support for employees in the event of redundancies."