Jobs could be axed in Runcorn (From Warrington Guardian)

Jobs could be axed in Runcorn

JOBS in Runcorn could be among hundreds shed as the department for education and skills cuts jobs across the country, the civil service union has warned.

The Public and Commercial Services Union says the DfES site at Castleview House in Halton Lea could see redundancies as up to 800 jobs go.

Cllr Rob Polhill, board member for regeneration, said: "I would be very disappointed if jobs were lost in Runcorn without bringing any extra in.

"We want government to get offices out of London and into the regions and places like Halton.

"When we know a bit more about the situation we will make any necessary representations."

The DfES is undergoing an efficiency review and the PCS says it will cut 15 per cent of its 4,700 staff in Runcorn, Sheffield, Darlington and London.

The review started in November and ends this month.

PCS has gained some reassurances on compulsory redundancies but says the uncertainty will continue as the job cuts roll out over the next two years.

It noted the DfES is a major employer in Runcorn and adult unemployment in the borough stands at 18 per cent.

Castleview House has housed various civil service departments for years.

A DfES spokesperson said: "We don't know how many jobs are going to be lost as regards staff at the DfES.

"It will affect offices across the country. There might be a clearer picture later in the week."