Scottish Government responds as Alexander Dennis set to move to England
On Wednesday, Alexander Dennis announced it will look at consolidating its UK bus body manufacturing operations into a single site in Scarborough, England.
The proposal would mean its Scottish-based manufacturing site in Falkirk, which has already been reduced in recent years, would be discontinued and closed.
Around 400 roles in Scotland are at risk of redundancy - approximately 22% of Alexander Dennis' UK workforce.
Around 400 jobs are set to be lost (Image: NQ) The company said the proposed plans were "extremely regrettable" but that "significant action" needed to be taken to drive efficiency.
The Scottish Government has since responded to the announcement, with Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes saying it was "a worrying time" for the staff, their families and the wider community.
READ MORE: Scottish Government rules out reopening national park process
Forbes (below) said: 'In recent weeks, the Scottish Government has engaged extensively with Alexander Dennis and its parent company NFI to understand the issues and ensure that every possible avenue is explored to mitigate the need for redundancies.
'This has included discussions with myself, the First Minister, leadership within Scottish Enterprise and Transport Scotland and the UK Government.
'The Scottish Government will continue to explore any and all options throughout the consultation period to allow the firm to retain their hard-working employees and manufacturing and production facilities at Falkirk and Larbert.
'In the event of any job losses, the Scottish Government will provide support through our Partnership Action for Continuing Employment initiative.'
READ MORE: Scottish Government receives more than 80 Grangemouth projects proposals
Meanwhile, First Minister John Swinney wrote on Twitter/X: "This will be an incredibly worrying time for workers at Alexander Dennis and their families.
"The Scottish Government will leave no stone unturned and explore all options that could protect jobs and manufacturing at Larbert.
"We stand ready to support anyone affected."
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