Tata Steel to cut production at Shotton site

One of the firm's two galvanised steel lines could be closed by the end of November, affecting 40 jobs

Tata Steel has announced it is to mothball a production line at its Shotton steelworks in Deeside. 

One of the company's two galvanised steel lines could be closed from the end of October or November, affecting 40 jobs.

The line, which produces products for the construction industry and domestic appliances, could be restarted in better market conditions. It is hoped that many of the affected workers could be moved over to the remaining line.

A company spokesman said: "In early September we told employees that we will be reducing operating capacity in hot dipped galvanising at our business in Shotton. One of our two galvanising lines will come out of production but will be retained so it can be restarted in more favourable market conditions. 

"Our second galvanizing line at Shotton will be ramped-up to full-time operation. We continue to be in discussions with employees, their representatives and the employers of contractors and agency staff about possible implications for employment levels. Every effort will be made to redeploy any affected employees within the business," he added.