Planners to mitigate Corus redundancies

Mark Wilding, Planning, 3 July 2009

Paul Woodcock was speaking after Corus said last week that more than 2,000 jobs are at risk, nearly 400 of them in Rotherham. He said planning would play a key role in ensuring future employment opportunities.

The council is now consulting on its core strategy, including its approach to land allocation. "If Corus no longer uses the site then we will look to retain the land for another company that can offer jobs," Woodcock said.

He added that short-term measures are being taken to support Corus employees: "We have a rapid response team comprising the council, Job Centre Plus, Yorkshire Forward and the Learning and Skills Council discussing what we can do."

Yorkshire Forward has pledged to contribute £1.5 million of the £5 million being offered by government to retain jobs in the region.