Today, 10 March, Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP convened a meeting of key stakeholders to discuss the proposed closure of Arla Foods’ site in Settle. The meeting brought together representatives including the Mayor of North Yorkshire, David Skaith, North Yorkshire Councillor David Staveley together with representatives from North Yorkshire Council, the GMB Union and the Environment Agency, to explore possible ways to support affected workers and the wider community.
Discussions focused on the potential impact of the closure, the business case being developed by the GMB Union to retain jobs, and the feasibility of alternative solutions. The Environment Agency also provided an update on odour management issues.
Following the meeting, Julian said: “I appreciate all stakeholders engaging with each other to see how best respond to Arla’s decision. My priority remains representing the interests of the workers and I will continue working with the trade union, local authorities, the Environment Agency and Arla to explore all available options.”
Image credit: Google Maps Street View, Arla Foods Settle site, September 2022.