Councillors have joined MPs in refusing to give up the fight for Goodyear manufacturing after the firm announced plans to close its Wolverhampton plant.
Goodyear Dunlop, previously one of the West Midlands’ major manufacturers, plans to axe 330 staff by closing its mixing and retread facility.
Councillor Peter Bilson, deputy leader of Wolverhampton Council followed in the footsteps of Wolverhampton North East MP Emma Reynolds in calling for an urgent meeting with the firm.
The proposals puts about 330 jobs under threat and comes after it closed its Dunlop Motorsport plant an a consultation has already begun with employees.
Coun Bilson said: “This is extremely disappointing news and we are seeking an urgent meeting with the company.
“While we recognise Goodyear is a global business that has to make global decisions, we would urge the company, which has a deep-rooted history with the city, to reconsider this decision.”
The company said the proposed actions are needed to help strengthen its competitiveness “in the face of a challenging business environment”.
Ms Reynolds previously told the Post she was calling on the company to reconsider its decision.
Erich Fric, managing director, Goodyear Dunlop Tyres UK, said: “In the face of ever-increasing competition, we carefully considered several options. However we believe these proposals are needed to strengthen our competitiveness and ensure we have a sustainable business.”
Meanwhile, Birmingham firm Dunlop Aircraft Tyres sought to distance itself from the move. The firm is no longer connected to Goodyear Dunlop.
“It is an independent company that continues to expand with new orders and global expansion,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
