Over 500 jobs at risk as GKN close automotive factory in Birmingham
Manufacturing giant GKN is proposing to close its factory in Erdington which makes parts for the automotive industry.
More than 500 jobs are at risk at the site.
A spokesman for GKN Automotive said: "Proposing this closure is a difficult decision which has been made despite significant effort and investment over the past 10 years to reduce the high operating costs at the Birmingham assembly site.
"Sadly, an increasingly competitive global market means that the site is no longer viable. Supporting our people is our priority as we consult on our proposals''.
Unite national officer Des Quinn said: "The workforce have been left shocked and angry to learn that management is looking to close this highly viable site.
"Unite is now seeking urgent meetings with senior management at GKN to understand the business case and the logic behind this decision.
GKN was bought by investment firm Melrose Industries in 2018.
Jack Dromey, Labour MP for Birmingham, Erdington, said Melrose had promised a bright future to employees when it bought GKN.
"Despite all the warm words by Melrose in 2018 to protect the future prosperity of GKN and its British workforce, the cold reality three years on is that one of GKN's finest plants now faces closure. Melrose promised a bright future to GKN's employees - a promise they have now broken.
"This announcement is completely unexpected by employees at GKN.
"Government ministers also have a responsibility to act after promises they made at the time of the hostile takeover."