Massive body blow

As AKD Engineering in Suffolk announced that it will shutter its doors yesterday (April 7) after 60 years in operation, more than 100 skilled jobs will be lost, delivering a “massive body blow” to the workforce and local economy.

After several years of substantial losses, the oil and gas engineering firm has been particularly hard hit by the current slump in the sector. It announced yesterday that it would close its business from the end of June.

Unite regional officer Miles Hubbard said that the news was devastating and demonstrates the geographical imbalance of the nation’s economic recovery.

“This closure is an indication that nationally economic recovery is still very much centred on London and parts of the south east.” he said. “We can ill afford to lose such skilled engineering jobs in this predominately rural area.

“This is a massive body blow to the dedicated workforce and their families, and for the local economy on the Norfolk/Suffolk border,” Hubbard added.

Hubbard said that Unite is currently seeking an urgent meeting with senior management to “see what options may be available to save or relocate jobs.”

“We will be working closely with our members and all interested parties in the coming days and weeks to explore all employment opportunities for these workers,” he added.