Council welcomes Novelis jobs announcement
Shropshire Council has welcomed the news that more than 100 jobs will be saved following the purchase of the Novelis printed confectionary foil packaging business in Bridgnorth by Discovery Foils Ltd.
However, the council has also pledged to continue to help and support those Novelis employees who are still facing redundancy.
Councillor Mike Owen, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for economy and waste, said:
“I was extremely pleased to hear the announcement by Discovery Foils and that more than 100 jobs have been saved as a result.
“Following the announcement by Novelis last September about the proposed closure of its Bridgnorth plant we have worked closely with all relevant support agencies to offer Novelis employees as much help, support and advice as we can. The fact that more than 100 jobs have been saved is excellent news for those workers, and for the Bridgnorth economy.
“However, I am aware that more than 200 Novelis employees are still set to lose their jobs, and we will continue to work hard to ensure that they are aware of the help and support available to them. We are helping staff to access the Shropshire Business Enterprise Fund and encouraging them to consider starting their own businesses, as well as providing information about the breadth of support Shropshire Council offers through housing services, benefits, re-training and more. Job fairs are also being planned to enable staff to find alternative work in the area.”
William Parr, Shropshire Councillor for Bridgnorth East and Astley Abbotts, said:
“Over 100 jobs saved is great news and a huge relief for those employees who can breath a sigh of relief but this is bitter sweet as there are twice as many jobs at Novelis that have been lost. Every window of opportunity must be opened and explored with all of Bridgnorth’s support and resources.”
Christian Lea, Shropshire Councillor for the Bridgnorth East and Astley Abbotts, said
“The announcement by Novelis last September about the proposed closure of its Bridgnorth plant came as a real blow for the 300 plus employees who work there and for the local economy. I’m delighted to hear that 105 jobs are going to be saved following Discovery Foils Limited decision to buy the printed confectionary foil packaging business from Novelis. I know that Shropshire Council and other agencies will offer as much help and support as possible to those 200 employees who sadly are set to lose their jobs.”
Les Winwood, Shropshire Councillor for Bridgnorth West and Tasley, said:
“I am pleased to hear that over 100 jobs have been secured by Discovery Foils Ltd. It is good news for those who have been retained and we must do all we can to support those who are set to lose their jobs as a result of the change.”
