Vauxhall ends vehicle production at Luton plant

Vauxhall has brought vehicle production at its Luton plant to a close, ending decades of manufacturing at the historic UK site. The plant, known for producing vans and commercial vehicles, played a significant role in the country's automotive industry. The decision reflects broader changes in the industry, including shifts in demand, production strategies, and the transition to electric vehicles. While the plant's operations will cease, some roles may continue in other capacities within the company.

Vehicle manufacturing has officially ceased at Vauxhall’s Luton facility, marking the end of a 120-year chapter for the automaker in the town.

Stellantis, Vauxhall’s parent company, revealed its decision last November to shift electric van production to Ellesmere Port in Cheshire, resulting in the closure of the Luton plant.

One emotional employee described the final moments as the “end of an era,” as the last Vauxhall Vivaro was completed at 12:18 GMT. The closure potentially jeopardizes over 1,000 jobs. Stellantis stated it would invest £50 million to expand and develop Ellesmere Port into its main UK commercial vehicle production hub.

A transition period will now begin, involving the relocation of equipment and technical expertise to the new site. Reflecting on the closure, one family expressed deep sorrow as they said goodbye to a long-standing community legacy. A Stellantis spokesperson emphasized that supporting affected employees in Luton remains a top priority during this transition. Unite’s general secretary Sharon Graham criticized the decision, calling it a betrayal of a workforce that consistently met production expectations.

Employee Steve Brown described the final day as emotionally complex, saying that while it was a difficult moment, the mood on the factory floor remained upbeat. Having spent 34 years at the plant, Brown noted the fond memories and camaraderie built over the decades. Josh Scrutton, who had worked at Vauxhall for around two years, said the job offered good pay and he would particularly miss his regular income.

He described the final shift as a collective moment, with staff gathering to witness the last vehicle leave the line. Muhammad Basharat, a 24-year veteran of the plant, expressed sadness over the closure and said he was now seeking employment in construction. Iftikhar Raja, a former quality controller with five years at the plant, reflected on the many memories and said the experience had been deeply meaningful for him and his family.

The Vauxhall brand began manufacturing in 1903 and moved operations to a purpose-built site in Luton two years later. Back in 2000, General Motors, then Vauxhall’s owner, announced plans to shutter its Luton car factory, resulting in about 1,900 job losses when it closed in 2002. Luton Borough Council had shown interest in acquiring the land previously used for van production but confirmed those efforts were unsuccessful.

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Source: BBC‍