Nottingham South MP, Lilian Greenwood, has responded to the announcement that Imperial Tobacco is to end production at its Horizon Factory in Lenton, cutting 540 jobs by 2016, by calling on Ministers to take action to support workers affected by the decision and help secure the long-term future of the plant.

In a letter to Ministers, co-signed by MPs Chris Leslie, Graham Allen and Vernon Coaker, Lilian has urged the Government to allow the Nottingham Enterprise Zone to be expanded to incorporate the Horizon site.  The decision to expand the Enterprise Zone rests with the Communities and Local Government Secretary.

It is hoped that incorporating the Horizon site into the Enterprise Zone will attract other manufacturing companies to consider buying the facility.  Enterprise Zone incentives include significant business rate discounts and super-fast broadband.

Lilian said:

“I will be doing everything I can, together with the City Council, and other partners to ensure Imperial Tobacco employees and their families receive all the help and support they need.  We must continue to focus on creating new, sustainable jobs and opportunities in our city.”