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SEEDA works with Vestas on future of Isle of Wight factory

28 April 2009

Following today’s announcement that consultation will start on the future of Vestas Blades’ Isle of Wight factory, the SEEDA has pledged to work closely with Vestas and its staff.

SEEDA Chairman Jim Brathwaite CBE said: "Vestas have welcomed last week’s Budget support for developing wind energy and we will be working with them to determine what opportunities this may create for Vestas Blades to continue manufacturing in the South East – for example modifying production to respond to the Government’s impetus to the UK wind market.

"We are already working with sister company Vestas Technology on plans for an £89m global research and development centre on the Isle of Wight. This will bring much needed investment and 150 new jobs to the Island by 2010 – but we will also do everything we can to support Vestas Blades and their staff during consultation on their future."

He added: "Vestas is vital to the local economy on the Isle of Wight – both in terms of direct employment but also the impact on other local businesses – and we will do our utmost to keep the work."

Mr Brathwaite continued: "We are today setting up a rapid response task group to work alongside Vestas Blades to support their workforce – for example if they modify production, new workforce skills may be needed. If we face the worst case of redundancies, we will help the workforce retrain, start businesses or find alternative jobs. To do this we will work closely with partner organisations including the Isle of Wight Council, Learning and Skills Council, Jobcentre Plus and Business Link."

For further information, please contact:

James Fulker, Press Officer SEEDA
Tel: 01483 484200
Email: pressoffice@seeda.co.uk 

Darren Bindloss, Head of Marketing & Communications, SEEDA
Tel: 01483 501397
Email: darrenbindloss@seeda.co.uk

View the full news release.

For more information please contact our press office

Tel: 01483 470155