Government puts 250 jobs at risk by closing Sheffield BIS office

BIS Permanent Secretary has announced plans to close St Paul’s Place office in Sheffield, putting 250 jobs at risk.

Plans to start the process to close the BIS office in Sheffield by 2018 were announced on 28 January by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills Permanent Secretary Martin Donnelly.

The closure of the Sheffield office, which currently employs 247 people, has not confirmed how many jobs will be cut as a result of the move.

This decision is part of a plan to reduce costs and create a combined central HQ and policy centre in London.

Around six business centres will also be established across the country. Each one will focus on a key business activity so that BIS can bring the relevant expertise together, move people quickly to new priorities and build capability.

Speaking at the Sheffield offices, Martin Donnelly said: “This announcement is part of implementing our BIS 2020 strategic plans to modernise the way we work, reduce operating costs and deliver a simpler, smaller department that is more flexible and responsive to stakeholders and businesses.

“Our operating model needs to be designed in a way that works for this smaller workforce with more streamlined structures.

“The decision to close Sheffield by 2018 has not been taken lightly. The unions are being consulted and will be involved throughout the process.

“It is my top priority that all our staff are fully briefed and consulted on the process. We will provide comprehensive support to all those facing a potential change or loss of job. In relation to the new business centres, we will be working closely with our Partner Bodies over the coming months to develop firm plans for their office locations.”

Mark Serwotka, the general secretary of the Public and Commercial Services union, added: “The business department is supposed to lead the way in helping local economies grow after the recession, yet it is retreating from towns and cities across the country.

“We do not accept the need for these offices to close and for jobs to be at risk and will be opposing these moves.”

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