BOROUGH leaders have welcomed the news that Ellesmere Port's Vauxhall plant will build the next generation Astra.
Yesterday's surprise announcement brought an end to years of uncertainty over the future of the North Road site and fears of an economic disaster for the borough and the whole region if the town failed to secure the contract to produce the model.
MP Andrew Miller said: 'I am delighted that GM has recognised Vauxhall as its jewel in the crown and awarded the plant the next generation Astra.
'Having worked closely with the company and the Government for many months to try to ensure a success story, the announcement is wonderful news for the workforce at the plant and for Ellesmere Port in g eneral.
'The plant will produce 180,000 vehicles a year, using three shifts - taking it back up to full capacity.
'Vauxhall Ellesmere Port can now look forward to the future with confidence and I congratulate all those involved in today's good news, the management, trade unions and the Gover nment.'
Chief executive of the borough council, Stephen Ewbank, said: 'This is tremendous news.
'We lobbied strongly to keep production of the new generation Astra in the borough and feel the decision is a tribute to the hard work and efficiency of the workers.'
Borough council leader Cllr Reg Chrimes, who is stepping from his Little Neston seat at next month's local elections, was also delighted by the news.
He said: 'It's a good note to go out on. This is great news not just for Ellesmere Port and Neston but for the region.'
Cllr Chrimes also paid tribute to the plant's workers, management and unions as well as the Government for their efforts in securing the plant's future.
