Solenis announces job cuts at its Low Moor site in Bradford

The firm has confirmed to the Telegraph & Argus that a total of 83 jobs are to be cut across its Bradford and Grimsby sites.

This is due to a “significant decline in demand for products manufactured in both Bradford and Grimsby”.

The cost-saving measures are “necessary to improve the sites' competitiveness", the company said.

An aerial view of Solenis at Low Moor in Bradford (Image: Google Maps)

A spokesman said that in order to minimise actual job losses, any open vacancies would not be filled – resulting in a reduced number of redundancies.

“For the past few years Solenis as well as other chemical manufacturers in the UK, has been operating in a tough business environment due to the rise in energy costs and high inflation.

“The Bradford and Grimsby teams have actively implemented numerous cost-saving measures during this period.

“Unfortunately, the business environment makes this difficult decision necessary to ensure the ongoing sustainability of the sites and help to improve the profitability of the business.”

Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves with Bradford South MP Judith Cummins

They added that all teams and individuals impacted by the proposals have been informed.

Consultation has also begun with the GMB union in order to try and preserve as many jobs as possible and mitigate the impact on those affected.

The Bradford site at Cleckheaton Road in Low Moor became part of Solenis in 2019, after a merger with BASF. A total of 465 people are currently employed there.

Solenis itself is a leading global producer of speciality chemicals and is headquartered in the US, with 71 manufacturing facilities around the world.

Bradford South MP Judith Cummins said the job cuts announcement was "difficult news" for those workers whose jobs are at risk.

“Energy-intensive businesses like Solenis have seen astronomical rises in their energy costs. I have repeatedly challenged the government on their inadequate support for these businesses. I warned time and again that jobs would be put at risk if the government did not listen to and support companies like Solenis, who have seen a five-fold increase in their energy bills.

“This was dismissed as an ‘extreme case’. In fact, it continues to be the everyday reality for thousands of businesses across the UK.

“Now we see real the impact of this government burying its head in the sand: job losses here in Bradford South."

She added that she will continue to speak to Solenis and work with the GMB union to ensure that workers are supported.