Steel firm's UK plant to shut with 180 jobs losses
BBCA steel company has announced its only UK plant is to shut next year with the loss of about 180 jobs.
Union Electric Steel blamed a lack of demand for UK-manufactured products, high energy costs and the ongoing effects of Brexit for its decision to axe the site in Gateshead.
The company's managing director Will Garrett said job losses were not "imminent", but some redundancies would be made before the closure in spring 2026.
He said the firm would return to consultations with union representatives to discuss the "timing and phasing" of redundancies. The firm said it would fulfil existing order books until the plant ceases operations.
Mr Garrett said: "We recognise the significance of this decision for our employees, their families and the local community.
"It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of our Gateshead operations after over 180 years of manufacturing.
"I wish to personally thank every one of our dedicated employees for their hard work, commitment and understanding during this difficult period."
The factory was originally home to the Davy Roll Company before it was acquired in 1999 by Union Electric Steel.
Mark Ferguson, Labour MP for Gateshead Central and Whickham, said he would focus on ing the workforce, "some of the most highly skilled steel workers in the UK, as they consider their futures".