Vauxhall secures jobs with new launch

Up to 70,000 vans will be built a year at Luton, with around half being exported

Vauxhall is considering introducing a second shift at its Luton-based van manufacturing plant following the launch of its latest Vivaro van.

The decision to build the vehicles in Luton has secured the future of 1,200 jobs over the next decade with the prospect of more workers being recruited in the future.

Up to 70,000 vans will be built a year at Luton, which is the UK's only factory making vans, with around half being exported.

Business Secretary Vince Cable said: "The launch of the new Vivaro is great news for British manufacturing. The plant at Luton, which has made such an important contribution to the local and national economy, has got a bright future thanks to the commitment of its workforce and ability to compete against the best in Europe.

"Through the UK government's industrial strategy we are backing the auto sector as it goes from strength to strength. We are providing the right environment to give businesses the confidence to invest and create high-skilled jobs."

Vauxhall’s other UK manufacturing plant is located in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire where production of the next generation Astra compact car begins in 2015.

Workers at Ellesmere Port won a similar long term contract to their colleagues in Luton. The agreement runs in to the next decade and secures a £125 million investment and 1,600 jobs.