A statement from Cllr Hazel Simmons MBE, Leader of Luton Council:
“Today’s news that Vauxhall plans to close its van making factory in Luton is a devastating blow for our town.
“First and foremost, our thoughts are with the employees and their families who have received this deeply distressing news.
“We are ready to support in any way we can and will be meeting with the plant’s management and Trade Unions to discuss practical help we can give at this time. When other firms have closed locally we have an excellent track record supporting employees to find alternative work utilising their transferrable skills and are fully committed to doing the same with our local Vauxhall community where a transfer to Ellesmere Port is not feasible for them.
“We are also seeking clarity from the government on what support they may also be able to provide for employees at this time.
Vauxhall has been an integral part of Luton’s heritage, and this is a sad day for our town, but we are a strong and resilient town and always bounce back. We will do exactly the same following today’s news.