MP welcomes local labour decision

WARRINGTON Borough Council’s decision to insist on local labour on the £30 million Orford Park Project has been welcomed by MP Helen Jones.
But the Warrington North MP (pictured) expressed disappointment that similar conditions had not been placed on other contracts.
She said: “I welcome this decision which comes as a pleasant surprise. I hope that this is a reflection of a change in policy by the ruling Lib Dem/Tory administration.”
Ms Jones launched a “Put Warrington First” campaign last month and complained that borough council leader Ian Mark had failed to support her.
Instead, he had only offered to discuss the matter further with colleagues in the region.
She said: “Since the launch of this campaign I have received a huge response from constituents who have expressed their support by letter, e-mail and by signing the petition.
“Councils like Thameside already let local companies bid first for smaller contracts. Why can’t Warrington do the same?
” The Government is spending millions of pounds on projects in Warrington. Now we need to make sure that this money keeps local people in work and provides apprenticeships.
“Now the council has agreed that the Orford Park project should be built by local labour will they also agree that the new social housing, for which they have just received nearly £2 million of Government money, should also be built by local firms.”