National logistics company Stobart is seeking planning permission for a new, larger base in North Staffordshire – in a move that will safeguard 150 existing local jobs and could create 75 more.
The company, part of the Culina Group, is leaving its current depot on Trentham Road, Clayton, and is preparing to re-locate to bigger premises at the former Ham Baker engineering site on Garner Street in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Stobart bosses had looked at other sites for its expansion plans but concluded that the new base, just off the A500 – and near to the A53 Etruria Road roundabout, was “perfectly located”.
Stobart Managing Director Neil Rowbotham said: “North Staffordshire is a great place to do business. We are committed to keeping around 150 current jobs and creating a further 75 highly qualified and skilled jobs in the local area by moving to a new base in Newcastle.
“The new depot will feature state of the art engineering workshops and offices, helping us grow and meet demand well into future.
“As one of the largest logistics companies in the UK, there were other potential sites to move to.
“However, the site in Newcastle is perfectly located. We hope by securing successful planning permission at Garner Street, we will also be securing and creating many jobs for years to come.”
Councillor Simon Tagg, Leader of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council said: “Choosing to locate to the Borough shows the confidence that companies have in the council to support business and help grow the local economy.
“It is fantastic news that Stobart have been able to find their ideal new depot in Newcastle, helping secure local jobs in the current challenging economic climate.”
Newcastle-under-Lyme MP Aaron Bell has also welcomed the move. He said: “It is great to see a national brand like Stobart wanting to stay in North Staffordshire and find a new depot in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
“Securing the business and jobs is a testament to our plan to grow the economy, support residents and local businesses.”
The former Ham Baker site has been cleared and The Stobart group is hoping to secure planning permission from the Borough Council by the end of October.
Stobart’s current depot, near Junction 15 of the M6, is expected to be leased to a new business, potentially creating more jobs in the area.
Stobart Group was originally set up by Eddie Stobart in 1970. It now has around 6,600 employees, 2,700 vehicles, 5,000 trailers and 43 operating centres throughout the UK.
I wondered why they were clearing Hartley’s at the end of Garner St