Job cuts at Bran Sands

Oct 7 2009 by Alan Formby-Jackson, Evening Gazette

NORTHUMBRIAN Water has said 30 staff are at risk of redundancy at its Bran Sands treatment plant at Teesport.

The news follows a review of the site which employs 103 people.

The company blamed the cuts partly on a reduction in industrial waste being treated at the site.

The introduction of a £33m anaerobic digestion plant at the works, also meant fewer staff were needed.

The recently constructed environmental project will bring significant eco benefits, but Northumbrian Water said it should require lower manning and maintenance levels than the existing plant.

Graham Neave, Northumbrian Water’s operations director, said: “This review has not been taken lightly as, regrettably, the consequences could affect employees who have been instrumental in ensuring the successful and safe operation of Bran Sands over many years.

“However, this appears to be unavoidable in the current economic climate and with the introduction of new technology. It is a specific issue, subject to consultation and is limited to this site.”