20 jobs 'at risk' as bus depot closes

First is proposing to relocate its depot operations at Midland Road in Masbrough to Sheffield and Doncaster by next February.

The company said the move would not affect services and would allow them to continue to deliver an efficient, effective and sustainable service for customers, with 230 drivers at the wheel of 80 vehicles.

But bosses have begun consulting union officials over the “less than 20 positions” which it said were “at risk” of redundancy.

A Q&A document distributed to staff said the jobs affected were “mainly in engineering supervision and a small number of skilled roles”.

Managing director Kevin Belfield said: “We will do everything we can to assist those affected, including supporting anyone who would wish to transfer to other First Bus operations where opportunities exist.”

Mr Belfield said staff based at Midland Road would be “fully supported” in moving to Doncaster and Sheffield, with most relocating to Sheffield.

First said the move was necessary as the Rotherham depot was becoming “increasingly uneconomical” because it was too large.

Unite regional co-ordinating officer Steve Clark said on Wednesday that the union was due to meet First’s management yesterday to discuss the implications the proposed closure may have for the workforce.

He added: “Unite won’t be commenting further until we have a clearer picture following those talks.”