Watch as Vauxhall union workers protest outside of Luton factory over planned factory closure

Union Unite organised the two-day protest outside of gate one in Kimpton Road, starting today (Tuesday) in reaction to plans revealed by Stellantis.

The owner of Vauxhall announced its intention to move production to its Ellesmere Port plant as part of a £50 million investment.

Speaking outside the factory, Unite’s national organiser for the automotive industry, Lewis Norton, said: “It's a community protest and a rally of support in defence of the closure of this plant.

“It’s to demonstrate to Stellantis, the owner, that this town isn't going to just give up this plant easy. And there is a real strength of feeling that they're not just gonna lie down and let this be closed.”

Lewis mentioned the “unwavering support” from the public who drove by the protestors. He said: “We've had tons of support from Royal Mail to local buses to taxi drivers and white van men. Ironically, this is the factory that makes their white van so their price is going to be going up as well.”

When asked what the workers want, Lewis explained: “They want a job. They want to fight for this plant. They're not ready for let it go. They're not ready to be part of the scrap heap of history, what they want is secure employment for the future. This is 120 year old site with four generations, and they want it to last for another number of generations. And I think long term, this is not just a looting issue. This is a UK issue. This is the future of UK manufacturing."

The Luton Green Party have supported the rally this morning. A spokesperson for the party said: “The decision to shut down Vauxhall Luton defies logic. It undermines the UK’s manufacturing base and threatens progress towards a green transition at a time when investment in sustainable industries has never been more critical. We must ask: what future is there for a green transition if flagship projects like this are allowed to fail?”

“We stand with the workers of Vauxhall Luton. We will not let them be forgotten.”