Dr Neil Hudson MP for Penrith and The Border visited Bonds Precision Castings in Alston last week to provide his continued support for this vital local employer.
Ownership of Bonds Precision Castings was transferred to Teescraft Engineering on 27th February 2020 following the announcement in December 2019 that the factory was to go into administration. During this time, Dr Neil Hudson MP worked with neighbouring MP, Richard Holden, MP for North West Durham, Bonds representatives, ministers and the administrators to help secure the survival of the Plant and a platform for job opportunities moving forward.
Bonds Precision Castings manufacture high integrity steel and iron castings using a specialist ceramic moulding process. The unique ‘Shaw Process’ produces castings with high definition and accuracy which is superior to traditional sand casting.
During the visit, Neil Hudson was given a tour of the site and spoke with site General Manager, Philip Bell, discussing the company’s plans to develop the site and diversify the businesses. Mr Bell explained the difficulties the business had gone through following the transfer and the pressures the Coronavirus Pandemic had added to the business.
Following the visit, Dr Neil Hudson MP said: “Businesses such as Bonds Precision Castings are vital to our area and I am encouraged to see this historic and specialist business is aiming to develop to ensure a strong and viable future can be built. Despite the pandemic, the company is working hard to overcome these challenges developing their customer base both in the UK and internationally. I very much hope moving forward that they will be in a position to re-employ many of those who sadly have lost their jobs. I will continue to work closely with the company and my Government colleagues to offer whatever support is needed to help this to happen.”
General Manager Philip Bell stated after the visit: “We will continue to work closely with the local government and welcome any further support than can be provided to help us to fulfil our ambitions to grow the business and secure its long term future for the good of the local community.”
