McCain job cuts 'inevitable'

The chip factory at Wombourne, near Wolverhampton, is having a 90-day consultation period over plans to axe half of the 240-strong workforce. Union leaders have now told staff losses are inevitable because of the long-standing problems which have dogged the Heath Mill Road plant and sparked complaints from people who are living nearby.

Consultation started on August 30, meaning 120 people could be told they are out of work at Christmas.

The firm annnounced last month that French fry production was to move to another UK site, revealing that the complaints from the public played a big part in the decision.

Residents have compared a "whirring, penetrating" noise coming from the factory to the Blitz and many have complained that they have been unable to sleep for years because of it.

Fumes as well as heavy traffic have also long been a cause for concern.

Despite millions of pounds of investments in equipment to tackle the issues, McCain say the Wombourne factory is no longer economically viable because of the environmental constraints in the area.

Although campaigners have welcomed the idea to downsize production at the factory, they have expressed their sympathy for the staff who face losing their jobs.

Unite spokesman Steve Dawson said that plans were being drawn up to help workers with CVs and training. He added: "There is no way around it because of the environmental health issues.

"We have tried everything but the company appears to be doing everything they can for the workforce."

Officials from the frozen food giant said that they were unable to comment because of the ongoing consultation process.

Company bosses have moved to reassure workers they are still committed to the future of the plant. If the changes go through, officials say the site would shift focus to the preparation of other potato foods.